Can You Sue for Injuries on Government Property?

Accidents on government property are not new issues. We have all seen slip-and-fall incidents at public parks and accidents at state-owned facilities. Sadly, victims of injuries sustained on government property may be left grappling with pain, mounting bills, and emotional distress. 

While seeking compensation in such cases can be challenging due to legal protections afforded to government entities, it’s not impossible. The Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA) allows individuals to sue for injuries on government property under specific conditions. An attorney for injury victims from Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway P.C. will evaluate your case to determine your rights for seeking compensation from the government. Always call a trusted lawyer as soon as possible. 

Understanding Sovereign Immunity

The primary legal challenge in suing for injuries on government property is sovereign immunity. This doctrine protects government entities from being sued. However, the TTCA provides exceptions to this rule to allow victims to pursue compensation in certain situations. 

For instance, if a government entity’s negligence causes an injury, the TTCA may allow the injured party to file a premises liability claim. However, this is only permitted if the plaintiff would be equally liable for the same case under Texas law.

Under the TTCA, claims can arise from various scenarios, including:

• Poorly maintained sidewalks or roads
• Unsafe conditions in government buildings
• Negligent operation of government-owned vehicles
• Hazardous conditions at public parks or recreational facilities  

However, pursuing such claims involves strict legal requirements. For example, you have up to 6 months to file a notice of claim. This notice should detail the nature of the damages sustained and the circumstances of the incident. 

Also, the TTCA outlines specific monetary limits on the compensation victims can recover based on the type of government entity involved. These caps apply to all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. The limits are as follows:

Claims against local government entities such as school districts, cities, or counties:

• $100,000 per person for bodily injury or death
• $300,000 total per incident for all injuries or deaths
• $100,000 for property damage

Claims against the state or state agencies include:

• $250,000 per person for bodily injury or death
• $500,000 total per incident for all injuries or deaths
• $100,000 for property damage

These caps mean that even if a victim’s damages exceed the stated amounts, the maximum recovery is limited to the thresholds outlined above. An attorney’s support is indispensable in safeguarding your rights and seeking fair compensation for your injuries.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Government Property Injury Claims

Successfully pursuing compensation for injuries on government property requires accurate knowledge and strategic action. An attorney for personal injury victims involving Texas government property can help in various ways.

First, filing a claim against a government entity is not as straightforward as suing a private party. The TTCA imposes strict procedural rules, which can include shorter timeframes than the usual two-year filing deadline. Also, the law requires the claimant to have been acting within their scope of employment at the time of the incident. A lawyer for personal injury victims in Texas ensures that all requirements are met promptly and accurately.

Also, proving that a government entity’s negligence caused your catastrophic injury can be challenging. An attorney will gather evidence to build a winning case. Importantly, your attorney will help you calculate the full scope of your damages so you can seek fair restitution.

Many victims feel overwhelmed when dealing with government bureaucracy. An attorney provides the support you need to level the playing field. Thus, the opposing legal teams dedicated to minimizing payout will not be able to outmatch you.

Seek the Help of a Lawyer for Victims Injured on Government Property in Texas

Injuries on government property can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. While pursuing compensation under Texas law is possible through the TTCA, the procedural hurdles require professional guidance. A lawyer can boost your chances of successfully winning a claim against the government. The personal injury team at Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway P.C. is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the resources you need to move forward. Contact our law firm today online or call 800-433-2408 for a free consultation.