Personal injury claims can be a complicated and daunting process. It can be made even more complicated and daunting when the United States government is involved.
Let’s say, for instance, that you got into an auto accident with a post office worker, and you are pretty sure they are at fault. Can you sue the government for damages? The answer is yes, but it isn’t an easy process. You will need an experienced attorney to help guide you through the process to get you the compensation that you deserve.
Below, we will go over what you need to know when it comes to suing the government. These are important factors to consider, as suing the government takes a lot of time, and in the end, you are not guaranteed any settlement.
How to Sue the Government
When you are considering suing the government, there are some special considerations to think about. First, you should be aware of the situations that would make you eligible to sue the government. Some examples are:
- An auto accident with a government vehicle (e.g., mail carrier, city bus)
- Slipping and falling in a government building due to poor maintenance or lack of signage
- Auto accident caused by road construction
- Abuse in a foster care environment
Typically, accidents that might require a personal injury case against the government occur with government vehicles or buildings.
Time Frame
Suing the government is a process that is going to take time, so you want to make sure you take the proper steps and do them in a timely manner.
Before you can file a lawsuit against the government, you will need to file a notice of claim. This notice of claim will specify whether you are suing a state government or the federal government. You will also need to describe the accident or reason for the claim and whether you are suing a government employee or the government in general. You will need to file this claim within two years of your accident.
The notice of claim is a part of the process that costs more time and works on the government’s behalf. It gives them time to investigate your case and determine whether they want to settle with you outside of court.
Most often, they will not choose to settle outside of court and instead let the claim expire, which is when you would want to file a lawsuit. When you file your lawsuit, it is crucial that you find an attorney or attorneys that sue the government.
Personal vs. Federal
A lawsuit levied upon the government will be like a lawsuit you would file for personal injury damages. To be compensated, you need to be able to prove that a government employee breached their responsibility of care, causing damages or injury to you or your property.
While this part of the process is similar to a personal injury claim, it is made more difficult by the Federal Torts Claims Act of 1946.
The FTCA
The FTCA is, in large, a good thing. Before it was passed, you couldn't sue the government. With its passage, you can sue the government. However, the FTCA also provides protection for the government.
For example, if you were in an especially egregious personal accident, you might be eligible to sue for punitive damages. This is not the case when suing the government.
The FTCA can also affect attorneys that sue the government. In any case that is settled outside of court, the attorney can only make 20% of the settlement.
Hire an Attorney
The claims process is historically lengthy, and even in cases not levied against the government, it is wise to have an attorney. This is especially true when you are suing the government, due to the complexities of the FTCA.
Remember, the government is going to have its own attorneys, and they are likely to be good at what they do. They will do everything they can to poke holes in your story to avoid having to pay for damages.
If you have been in an accident at a government facility or with a government employee and seek representation, please contact the Law Office of Jeff Martin and Associates.
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