Personal Injury Lawyer in Roswell, GA | Sean P. Collins Law

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sean@seanpcollinslaw.com

Sean P. Collins PC
Attorney at law

How to Sue The Government for an Injury in Georgia

When Can an Injury Lawsuit or Claim Be Brought Against The State of Georgia?

In Georgia, an injury lawsuit or claim can be brought against the state if the negligence of a state employee or agency caused the injury. However, there are certain limitations and procedures that must be followed. 

Firstly, the injured person must file a notice of claim within the applicable windows—12 months for the State or County, and 6 months for City. This notice must include the name and address of the injured person, the date and location of the incident, a description of the injury, and the number of damages sought. 

Secondly, the state has the right to investigate the claim and attempt to settle it before a lawsuit is filed. If a settlement cannot be reached, the injured person may file a lawsuit within two years of the incident. 

Can I Bring a Personal Injury Case or Claim Against a Georgia County Government?

Yes, you can bring a personal injury case or claim against a Georgia county government. However, there are certain rules and procedures that must be followed. First, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the incident. This notice must include the date and location of the incident, a description of the injury or damage, and the amount of compensation sought. If the county denies your claim, you can file a court lawsuit.

It is important to note that there are limits on the number of damages you can recover from a county government. In Georgia, the maximum amount of damages that can be recovered in a personal injury case against a county government is $1 million per person and $3 million per incident. Additionally, there are certain immunities that protect the county government from liability in certain situations, such as when the injury was caused by the actions of a government employee while performing their official duties.

Ante Litem Notices and Their Requirements

The ante litem notice is a legal document that is required to be filed before a lawsuit can be filed against a government entity in the state of Georgia. The notice must be filed within 12 months for the State or County, and 6 months for City, and it must include specific information such as the name and address of the claimant, the date and location of the incident, a description of the injuries or damages sustained, and the number of damages sought.

In addition to these requirements, the notice must also be sent to the appropriate government entity via certified mail, return receipt requested. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in the dismissal of the lawsuit. It is important to consult with an attorney who is experienced in handling these types of cases to ensure that all requirements are met.

Overall, filing an ante litem notice in Georgia requires attention to detail and adherence to specific requirements. By following these requirements, claimants can ensure that their case is not dismissed and that they have the best chance of receiving the compensation they deserve.

What Are Some Examples of Injury Claims & Cases that Can Be Brought Against The State?

Injury claims and cases against a county of the State of Georgia can arise in various situations. One example is a slip-and-fall accident on county-owned property, such as a courthouse or government building. Another example is a car accident involving a county-owned vehicle, where the driver was negligent or reckless. Additionally, a person may be able to bring a claim against the county for injuries sustained while in custody at a county jail or detention center.

In order to bring a successful injury claim against a county in Georgia, the injured party must prove that the county was negligent or at fault in some way. This can be challenging, as counties are often protected by sovereign immunity, which limits their liability for certain types of claims. However, there are exceptions to sovereign immunity, and an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate the legal complexities of bringing a claim against a county.

Overall, injury claims and cases against a county of the State of Georgia can involve a wide range of circumstances, from slip and fall accidents to car crashes and more. Suppose you have been injured due to the negligence of a county government entity or employee. In that case, it is important to seek legal advice from a qualified attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.