New York City Will Start Billing Car Accident Victims

Get into a car accident in New York City, and you can expect swift response from the city's fire department—and a bill of up to 500 bucks. Starting in July, the city will follow the lead of others around the country by instituting a so-called "crash tax," reports the Wall Street Journal. FDNY "can no longer afford to provide" such services at no cost, explains a statement.

Not all accidents are created equal: One with fire and injuries will run $490, while a no-frills fender bender is $365. A public hearing is set for January and the FDNY promises to listen, but the Journal points out that with the fire chief and mayor already on board, it's essentially a done deal. (More New York City stories.)