A paramedic says there's a lack of respect for first responders.
More than 3000 ambulance staff reported being physically or verbally assaulted last year.
ACC is footing an increasing bill for violence - they've already paid out $13 million in assault-related claims this year.
Christchurch based intensive care paramedic Dean Brown told Mike Hosking drugs and alcohol are used as a scapegoat.
“People just think that's a good enough excuse that they're not responsible if they're under the influence of something and they can do what they like.”
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