For as long as I can remember, the legal field has always fascinated me. While my friends watched sitcoms and cartoons, I chose to watch courtroom dramas and real life trials unfold. There was never really any question as to what I wanted to be when I got older. The only profession for me was that of a trial lawyer. Unfortunately, a serious car accident several years ago changed all that. Now, my injuries prevent me from leaving my home most days. However, my love for the law has never went away. While I may not be able to realize my dreams of becoming a trail lawyer, I still wish to help people with their legal problems. That is why I decided to start this blog. It is my hope that the information contained in these pages will help other accident victims like me when filing their personal injury claims.
Personal injury claims are not limited to the private sector. Many times, injuries are caused by government entities or by people who work for the government. The scandal involving tainted water in Flint, Michigan is a perfect example of personal injury caused by government and/or city agencies. Unfortunately, when government agencies are responsible, it can be much more difficult to prove your case and win a settlement. Following are three factors that make lawsuits against government agencies much more complicated than suits filed against a fellow civilian.
Special Rules and Regulations
Government agencies at the city, county and Federal level get to set their own rules and regulations regarding lawsuits. They can dictate what they can be sued for, who can sue them, and how the process must play out. Since each entity gets to set their own rules, the whole process can be quite confusing. What's more, some types of lawsuits may be prohibited, which will essentially block you from receiving compensation if your suit falls into the prohibited category. For this reason, legal counsel, from an attorney like John J Bublewicz Attorney At Law, is vital when dealing with injuries caused by the government.
Formal Complaints and Deadlines
The statute of limitations for your particular injury may not apply in cases dealing with government entities. In many cases, government agencies have rules that you must follow regarding filing formal complaints. For example, many agencies only give you a short amount of time, 30 to 180 days, to file a formal complaint. If your complaint is not filed within the specified time period, you may not be able to seek compensation. If special circumstances are present, you may be able to get the agency to waive the deadline requirement, but there is no guarantee.
Case Worth and Complications
Since you have to file your claim within a short amount of time, you may not know the full extent of your injuries or how much your medical bills will total once all is said and done. Most attorneys recommend asking for much more than you think your case is worth for this very reason. If you ask and are able to obtain more money, you will have a cushion to help pay for unexpected costs.
Personal injury claims against the government are complicated. That's why it's vital for you to contact an attorney immediately after being injured. Waiting is not an option. If you wait too long, you may not be able to file a claim at all.
Share27 January 2016
