Times When You Can Sue the City After a Car Accident
Normally, after a car accident, an injured party seeks compensation from an at-fault driver or the person who caused the collision. However, in some cases, it is the city that can be held liable for your accident-related injuries. Holding a city legally responsible for damages can be challenging, which is why it is always in your best interest to consult with an attorney.
At Westlake Injury Law, we represent individuals who have been injured in car accidents throughout Ventura and Los Angeles County. Our lawyers fight to ensure that every client receives the largest possible recovery in their case. If you are injured in a car crash, contact our office at (805) 338-6880 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you hold all liable parties accountable for their wrongdoing.
When a City May Be Responsible for Your Accident
Car accidents may have one or more contributing factors. In some instances it may be another motorist that caused the collision, while in others it may be a defective auto part. A less discussed party that may be held legally responsible for your injuries after a car accident is a government entity such as the city or municipality where the accident occurred.
A city may be held liable after a car accident if:
- The car accident involved a city vehicle and the driver was at fault;
- The road contained a defective design;
- The street or highway had incorrect, confusing, or missing signage;
- There was construction debris;
- Potholes were not timely repaired;
- The road itself was not adequately maintained;
- The intersection contained an obstructed view that the city knew or should have known about; or
- Lanes were not clearly marked.
These are only a few of the many circumstances in which a city may be held liable after a car wreck. Any time you are injured in an accident, you should speak with an attorney. A car accident lawyer can help determine if you have a valid claim for damages and who you can sue to obtain compensation for your losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against the City?
You have a very limited amount of time to file a claim against a government agency in California. In most cases, you only have six (6) months from the date of the incident to file a claim.
You must start by filing an “administrative claim” with the office or agency you intend to sue. The government then has up to 45 days to respond. It is important to note that many claims against government entities get denied. Retaining an attorney early in the process can help ensure that your claim is not denied due to paperwork errors or missed deadlines.
Contact Our Office to Discuss Your Case
If you believe that the city was responsible for your car accident, contact our office at (805) 338-6880 to discuss your case directly with an attorney. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our firm. We proudly serve clients throughout Southern California.
