What Kinds Of Damages Might Be Suffered In An Accident Caused By The City?
There are various accidents in which the city could be held liable. For example, the city streets department might fail to repair a sidewalk and that might cause you to trip and fall, breaking your arm.
A city worker was driving a city vehicle while under the influence of prescription drugs that caused drowsiness. The worker crossed the centerline and hit your car head-on, causing you to suffer a back injury and a serious concussion.
You will need to include all the damages you have suffered in your personal injury claim against the city. Here are some common damages claimed in personal injury claims”
- Medical expenses – both past and future
- Loss of earnings – both past and future
- Property damages
Pursuing A Personal Injury Claim Against The City
Filing a personal injury claim against the city isn’t like pursuing a personal injury claim against an individual. Government entities are exempted from lawsuits, but thanks to other laws, there are loopholes that allow legal action for personal injury claims.
You will need to enlist the help of a personal injury attorney who is licensed in California to handle your personal injury claim against the city. You will need to complete a claim form and provide documentation supporting your damages.
It must be filed in the City Attorney’s Office within six months of the date of the accident. If you don’t get response for your claim within 45 days, you can call the office to check on the claim status.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If an accident that was caused by the city negligence resulted in you suffering damages, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer. With the help of an attorney, you are much more likely to be compensated for your losses.
Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Remember, you only have six months to pursue your claim, so don’t wait before it's too late.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against the city of Oakland, or the state government of California or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.