When Is a Government Agency Responsible for a Car Accident?
In California, government agencies can be responsible for car accidents under certain circumstances. One of the most common situations in which a government may be liable is when the accident is caused by a dangerous condition on a public road or highway. Under California law, government agencies have a legal duty to maintain roads and highways in safe conditions for motorists.
If you suffered injuries in an accident due to a dangerous condition on a public road, such as a pothole or broken traffic light, the agency may be responsible for damages sustained in the accident. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we can determine one or more liable parties in the car accident and aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf.
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6 Common Scenarios When a Government Agency May Be Responsible for a Car Accident
There are several common scenarios in which a government agency may be responsible for a car accident in California, including the following:
1. Dangerous Road Conditions
If a vehicle accident is caused by a dangerous condition on a public road or highway, such as uneven pavement, potholes, or other conditions, and the government agency knew or should have known about the condition, the agency may be held liable for any accidents and damages that result from negligence.
2. The Driver Is a Government Employee
Employers are generally liable for the actions of their employees while they are acting within the scope of their employment. This means that if the at-fault driver was a city or state employee and was driving while on the clock, you may pursue a claim against the government agency.
3. Construction Zones
Government agencies are responsible for maintaining safe conditions in construction zones. If an accident was caused by an unsafe condition, such as inadequate signage or barriers, the agency, such as the California Department of Transportation, can be held liable for injuries and resulting damages.
4. Public Transportation Accidents
If a car accident involves a public transportation vehicle, such as a bus or train, and the accident was caused by driver negligence or the company responsible for vehicle maintenance, a government agency may be responsible for the resulting damages.
5. Police Pursuit Accidents
If a police pursuit caused a car accident, and the pursuit was conducted in a negligent or reckless manner, the police department responsible for the pursuit may be held liable for any damages resulting from the accident.
6. Failure to Maintain Traffic Signals
Government agencies can also be responsible for car accidents caused by malfunctioning or poorly maintained traffic signals or signs.
It’s important to note that these are just a few examples in which a government agency can be held responsible for a car accident in California. Each case is unique, and liability depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. Seek legal counsel from the car accident lawyers at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp. We can help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve in a car accident claim.
Speak With the Highly Qualified Car Accident Lawyers at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp.
Government agencies can be held responsible for car accidents in California when the accident is caused by a dangerous road condition or the negligence of a government employee. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we can assess the details of your case to determine who is responsible for your injuries and hold them accountable.
Attorney Eric Ratinoff fights for you through every step of the legal process and utilizes unique storytelling techniques to illustrate the true extent of your losses. Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (916) 970-9100 or filling out our contact form.
