Where did the phrase Ambulance Chaser Come From
The phrase "ambulance chaser" originated in the United States in the early 20th century as a derogatory term for certain types of lawyers. The term refers to attorneys who would allegedly follow ambulances to accident scenes or hospitals, seeking out victims of accidents or injuries to solicit as clients. These lawyers were seen as exploiting vulnerable people at a time of crisis, focusing more on personal profit than on the well-being of the individuals they were supposed to help.
The term "ambulance chaser" is used to describe a lawyer who is perceived as unethical or unscrupulous, particularly one who aggressively seeks out clients involved in personal injury cases. These lawyers often engage in practices that are frowned upon in the legal profession, such as approaching accident victims or their families immediately after an incident, sometimes even before they have received proper medical care or had time to process the event.
The phrase has since become a symbol of the worst aspects of personal injury law, painting a picture of lawyers who prioritize quick settlements and large fees over justice and fairness. While not all personal injury lawyers engage in such practices, the term "ambulance chaser" has endured as a way to criticize those who do.