Rescued Victim’s Claim Sparks Outrage

Posted by: Curt Varone March 5, 2014 0

A Colorado man who was rescued by firefighters from floodwaters has sparked outrage in the emergency services community by filing a civil claim for damages against his rescuers.

Roy Ortiz claims that last September 12, 2014 during historic floods he waited some two hours for rescuers to realize he was trapped in his vehicle and effect a rescue. He also claims he is without resources to pay over $500,000 in medical bills he has incurred.

According to his attorney Ed Ferszt, “It’s unfortunate to have to try and cast liability and responsibility for this act of God on the men and women who risked their own lives.”

The civil claim, a precursor to an actual lawsuit, has generated much criticism among firefighters online. Here is Rhett’s take.

About Curt Varone

Curt Varone has over 45 years of fire service experience and 35 as a practicing attorney licensed in both Rhode Island and Maine. His background includes 29 years as a career firefighter in Providence (retiring as a Deputy Assistant Chief), as well as volunteer and paid on call experience. He is the author of two books: Legal Considerations for Fire and Emergency Services, (2006, 2nd ed. 2011, 3rd ed. 2014, 4th ed. 2022) and Fire Officer's Legal Handbook (2007), and is a contributing editor for Firehouse Magazine writing the Fire Law column.
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