On behalf of Law Offices of Kathleen G. Alvarado posted in personal injury on Thursday, November 15, 2018.

California’s state government, with its many agencies, is likely one of the state’s largest employers. Add in all of the various local governments and their agencies, which include the various departments of this state’s largest cities, and a Riverside resident can easily see how the government and its employees have a huge hand in California’s economy and daily life. Regardless of whether one thinks this is a good thing or a bad thing, the reality is that people are in contact with government employees and government businesses all the time, on the roads, at various office buildings, and just about anywhere else.

Not surprisingly, government employees from time-to-time make mistakes and are even careless. This can result in an individual being hurt in the process. When this happens, victims deserve compensation to offset the damages that have been unfairly thrust upon them. Because the government is involved, however, recovering compensation through a lawsuit requires some special steps.

These steps are detailed and can be difficult to navigate, so it is usually a good idea to get the help of an experienced California personal injury attorney. However, one can keep some general principles in mind. Basically, a person cannot begin a formal claim against a state or local government, or any agency or subdivision thereof, by simply filing a lawsuit. They must instead first submit a timely notice, through the established channels, to the agency they wish to sue. Failing to submit a proper notice by the deadline, which is six months after the event, can mean a victim has waived his or her right to sue the state or local government. This is why it is so important to be sure the notice is filed correctly.

Deciding to go toe-to-toe with the government can be daunting. Yet, if you’ve been injured by a government employee and you follow the law as it pertains to filing a claim, then you may be able to recover the compensation you need and deserve. If successful, you might be able to let go of your concerns about how to pay for medical care and how to recoup your lost wages, thereby allowing you to focus on reclaiming your life.