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Collections from Fire Department

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  • 05-24-2007, 11:24 AM
    longhungjohn33
    Collections from Fire Department
    About 16 months ago I was involved in a traffic accident. Nobody was hurt, the cops showed up as did the Fire Department. There was no fire, there were no injuries. All the firemen did was shovel some oil dry on the minor spills, clean it up and leave. I have just received a letter in the mail stating that I owe $200+ to the Fire Department for them coming to the scene of the accident. I didn't call the Fire Department, somebody else did and I don't know who. I have never received any other bills from them previously nor do I wish to pay this because it's crazy. I could have shoveled up some damn oil dry for about $5. Am I obligated to pay this alleged debt even tho I never requested the Fire Department to be there?

    I am going to dispute it under the FDCPA, but is it worth my while?
  • 05-24-2007, 12:26 PM
    aaron
    Re: Collections from Fire Department
    It's not that unusual these days for such bills to be issued to the at-fault party. Check to see if your insurance will pay it. Beyond that, investigate the laws of your state, as laws are different in each state.
  • 05-24-2007, 12:58 PM
    seniorjudge
    Re: Collections from Fire Department
    Quote:

    Quoting longhungjohn33
    View Post
    ...
    All the firemen did was shovel some oil dry on the minor spills, clean it up and leave.
    ....

    If you were the at-fault party, you will pay this.
  • 05-24-2007, 04:52 PM
    GreatGadsby
    Re: Collections from Fire Department
    FDCPA probably won't apply for two reasons:

    1. if it's the FD collecting their own debt, not a collection agency, then it's not covered.

    2. it's not a debt for household purposes, so probably not covered.
  • 06-08-2007, 05:56 PM
    edrrt
    Re: Collections from Fire Department
    Are you a member of the community which that FD serves? If yes, your taxes pay for the response. You should not be charged. Some places will bill you on the grounds that you do not cover the balance your insurance does not pay. If you are non local then they can bill you. Your auto insurance should cover it either way though.
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