Accidents that occur due to the negligence of a government entity happen more often than we think. Fortunately, legal resources are accessible to those who suffer a personal injury through these entities. Although public entities are protected by various legal immunities, they can be successfully pursued with the support of a skilled legal team. We will walk you through each stage of the process to help you decide if suing a public entity is the best path forward.
Identify the Situation
A public entity is an organization that provides valuable services to the community, often working on behalf of the government or other publicly funded institutions. If you have been involved in an accident on public property or because of the actions of a public employee, you may be eligible to file a claim against the public entity responsible. We want to help you better understand your options. Below are some scenarios to consider as you explore whether you might qualify for a claim.
- Slip and fall accidents on public sidewalks
- Public transport accidents
- Injuries caused by negligent maintenance at public schools or parks
- Flooding resulting from the government failing to maintain flood control infrastructure
- Car accidents caused by dangerous road conditions under government responsibility
Make Sure Timeline Is Accurate
In California, claims against public entities must generally be reported t that entity within six months of the accident. The agency then has forty-five days to respond, and if they reject the claim, you then have six months from the date of rejection to file a lawsuit.
Steps Before You Sue the City
1. Seek Medical Attention
Ensure your safety and the safety of everyone involved. Do not hesitate to get medical help, even if the injuries seem minor. Some issues can surface hours or even days later.
2. Document the Scene
Capture clear photos or video of the accident scene, including any hazards, property damage, injuries, weather conditions, and surrounding area. Gather contact information from witnesses, note the time and location, and document any statements made by those involved. This evidence can help clarify what happened and support your claim later.
3. Contact the Relevant Public Entity
Notify the appropriate government agency or department involved, such as the city government, public works, or local transit authority depending on your accident.
Why Choose Fielding Law
It is often difficult to navigate the complexities of public entity cases, especially when you are trying to sue the city for compensation related to your injuries. But with the help of Fielding Law and our legal expertise, you do not have to face it alone. Our trusted team ensures peace of mind, so that you only need to focus on recovery.
We know this is a challenging time – do not wait any longer. Call 833.88.SHARK for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal complexities.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
