If you have been injured in an accident with a city vehicle, you might be able to recoup compensation through a personal injury claim.
What Kinds of Damages That May Result
If you are injured in a city bus accident, you could suffer a variety of damages. Some injuries could be life-altering. You will need to maintain documentation to support your claim. Always have an accident report completed and make sure you report your accident to the proper authorities and entities. Be examined by a medical professional right away. Failure to do so can negatively affect your claim.
Here are some common damages suffered in such accidents:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Property damages
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Keep copies of medical bills, medical records, proof of missed work and lost wages, and repair estimates for damaged vehicles. Get photos of visible injuries and damages as well.
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim
Pursuing a personal injury claim against a government entity like the city is not the same as suing an individual. A special process must be followed. Failure to adhere to the guidelines could result in your right to pursue a claim being lost.
To file a claim against the city, you will have to complete a claim form available from the city attorney’s website. In some states, you have two years from the date of the accident or the date you discovered the injury to file a claim, but when a governmental agency is concerned that statute of limitations drops to six months.
After your claim form has been submitted to the city or county, they have 45 days to reject or approve your claim. If your claim is rejected, you have six months from the date of rejection to file a lawsuit to recoup compensation for your personal injury claim.
Consult With A Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been injured in an accident, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who is licensed to practice in the relevant state. An accident injury lawyer understands the state laws regarding personal injury claims and government entities and can help you get your claim on track.
With an attorney representing you, the chances of a successful personal injury claim increase significantly. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have your claim details reviewed by an lawyer in your area.
*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 San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority (SFMTA), or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
