Governmental Negligence
Whether the city, county, state or
federal government is to blame, the law dealing with
government negligence claims is unique and distinct
from general liability claims. A policy, known as sovereign
or governmental tort immunity, protects government entities
and allows them to escape liability for their actions
(or failure to act), even if they would have been liable
if they were acting as a private entity or individual.
Generally speaking, there are certain limitations when
pursuing a claim against the city, state or government
municipality. There are certain time restrictions and
legal technicalities that must be followed in order
to properly prosecute a claim against the government.
There are, however, exceptions to government immunity
and situations were the government may be held liable
for its actions.
Automobile accidents,
where the vehicle is owned or leased by a government
entity and is being operated by a public employee while
performing their job, is one of the more common exceptions.
Hazardous highway and road conditions, such as construction
zones that aren't properly lit or marked, are grounds
for claims arising for injuries and damages.
Government entities, as property
owners, have a duty to maintain their property in a
way that makes it safe for anyone who comes onto their
property. When a person suffers a
slip or
trip and fall
accident on public property (county hospitals, municipal
facilities, state roads, sidewalks, government buildings,
parks, parking lots), it may result in serious injuries.
Poor lighting, loose rugs or carpets, wet floors, broken
sidewalks, uneven floors, potholes, and lack of stair
railings are all examples of hazardous conditions on
the property that can lead to injuries.
If you have been injured as a result of government negligence, it is vital that you do not talk to any investigator, sign any papers, or accept a settlement before talking to a government liability lawyer. It is important for you to seek the advice of a lawyer in order to protect your right to fair compensation. Contact I Law and allow our experience to go to work for you. At I Law, we understand your concerns and will do our best to ease your burdens. We will dedicate the necessary resources to ensure that you are adequately represented and your rights are protected. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you and your loved ones and there is never any charge for an initial consultation. We are happy to schedule appointments at your home, in a hospital or at a location that is convenient for you. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis. If for any reason there is no recovery, then we receive no fees or costs. Simply stated, we are paid fees and costs only if you win. At I Law, personal attention matters.