If you have recently suffered a personal injury due to the negligence of a government entity in New Jersey, you may be entitled to compensation. However, filing a personal injury claim against a government entity can be a complex process that requires careful attention to detail and specific requirements. In this article, we’ll explain the steps you should take to file a personal injury claim against a government entity in New Jersey.
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Understand the Basics of Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against a Government Entity
Before we dive into the specifics of filing a personal injury claim against a government entity in New Jersey, it’s essential to understand the basics of this type of claim. Essentially, when you file a personal injury claim against a government entity, you are seeking financial compensation for damages resulting from the negligence or intentional actions of a government employee or agency.
It’s important to note that filing a personal injury claim against a government entity is not the same as filing a lawsuit against a business or individual. When you file a personal injury claim against a government entity, you are essentially asking the government to compensate you for damages without going to court. If the government entity refuses to compensate you, you may then file a lawsuit.
Determine Which Government Entity is Responsible for Your Injury
One of the first steps in filing a personal injury claim against a government entity in New Jersey is determining which government entity is responsible for your injury. Government entities can include city, county, and state agencies, as well as public schools and universities.
Once you have determined which government entity is responsible for your injury, you will need to file a notice of claim with that entity. This notice of claim is a formal document that notifies the government entity that you intend to file a personal injury claim.
File Your Notice of Claim
New Jersey law has specific requirements for filing a notice of claim against a government entity. You must file your notice of claim within 90 days of the date of your injury or, in some cases, within 90 days of when you first became aware of your injury. Your notice of claim must include the following information:
- Your name and contact information
- The date of your injury
- The location where your injury occurred
- A description of your injury and its severity
- The name and contact information of any witnesses to your injury
- A detailed explanation of why you believe the government entity is responsible for your injury
- The amount of money you are seeking in compensation
Your notice of claim must be delivered to the appropriate government entity either by certified mail or in person. Once the government entity receives your notice of claim, they have six months to investigate your claim and determine whether or not to compensate you.
Seek Legal Representation
Filing a personal injury claim against a government entity in New Jersey can be a complex and challenging process. Given the short timeline for filing your notice of claim and the specific requirements for this type of claim, it’s essential to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney.
An attorney can help you navigate the process of filing a notice of claim, represent you during the government entity’s investigation, and negotiate on your behalf for a fair settlement. In many cases, an attorney can help you receive a higher settlement than you would be able to on your own.
Final Thoughts
Filing a personal injury claim against a government entity in New Jersey can be a complicated and time-consuming process. However, by following the steps outlined above and seeking legal representation, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. Remember, you have a right to seek compensation for damages resulting from the negligence or intentional actions of a government entity, so don’t hesitate to take action if you have been injured in this way.