Can the Government Be Liable for a Car Accident in Illinois?

 Posted on March 20, 2021 in Auto Accidents

The year is not even half over and there have already been 137 fatal crashes in Illinois. Car accidents resulting in serious injury or death are not uncommon in Illinois – especially in populous areas like Cook County and DuPage County. Distracted driving, drunk driving, and other forms of negligent driving are often to blame for these accidents. However, the party who is liable for a car crash is not always another driver. In fact, sometimes the liable party is a municipality or government entity.  

Car Accidents Caused by Poorly Designed Roads

We trust that the government will design and construct roads that reduce the risk of car accidents. After all, this is what our taxes help pay for. Mistakes in the design, construction, or maintenance of roads can cause or contribute to crashes. Inadequate road markings, unsafe shoulders, unreasonably complicated intersections, or dangerous exit ramps may all be examples of poor road design. Insufficient or conflicting road signs and traffic signals may increase the chances of an accident at an intersection. Roadside hazards, hidden obstructions, and unmarked construction zones may also be the fault of a government entity.

Car Accidents Caused by a Government Employee

If you were hurt in an accident caused by an employee of a company such as a trucking company, the company is typically liable for damages. Similarly, the government may be liable for accidents caused by government employees who are performing work duties. If your accident was caused by a mail carrier, city bus driver, police officer, or another individual who works for the government, the government entity that employs that person may be responsible for your damages.

Special Rules Regarding Claims Against the Government

Suing a government entity for damages resulting from a car accident is much more complicated than suing an individual or company. Federal, state, and city governments typically have sovereign immunity, which makes it much harder to successfully sue for damages. If you were hurt and a government entity is liable, your case will be subject to much stricter rules and deadlines. You will need to work with an attorney who is experienced in handling these types of complex injury cases to build a strong claim.

Contact a Cook County Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one were hurt in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income, medical expenses, and other damages. An accomplished Elmhurst personal injury attorney from Kaiser Law can help you fight for the compensation you need and deserve. Call us today at 630-233-9946 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Source:

http://apps.dot.illinois.gov/fatalcrash/snapshot.html