Can You Hold the City of Las Vegas Responsible for a Personal Injury?
If you have suffered a personal injury in Las Vegas, you may be wondering whether you can sue the city for damages. Here is what you need to know.
Suing the City of Las Vegas for Personal Injury
It is possible to sue the City of Las Vegas for personal injury, but several factors must be considered. First and foremost, the City of Las Vegas, like any government entity, is protected by sovereign immunity. Sovereign immunity is a legal principle that generally prevents individuals from suing the government without the government’s consent.
However, the state of Nevada has waived sovereign immunity for certain types of claims, including personal injury claims. This means that individuals who have suffered personal injuries as a result of the City of Las Vegas’s or a city employee’s negligence may be able to file a lawsuit against the city.
How to File a Claim Against the City of Las Vegas
To file a lawsuit against the City of Las Vegas for a personal injury, you must first file a notice of claim with the city within 180 days of the incident that caused the injury. The notice of claim must include a detailed description of what happened, the nature and extent of your injury, and the amount of compensation you are seeking to resolve the claim. After filing the notice of claim, you may need to negotiate with the city for a settlement. However, if they deny your claim or you cannot reach a favorable settlement, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Failure to file notice or missing the statute of limitations deadline can result in the dismissal of your claim.
Common Causes of Government Injury Claims in Las Vegas
There are several common causes of personal injury in Las Vegas that may give rise to a lawsuit against the city. These include:
Slip and Falls
Slip and falls can occur on city property, such as sidewalks, parks, and government buildings if the city fails to maintain the premises in a reasonably safe condition.
Car Accidents
Car accidents on city streets and highways can occur due to the city’s failure to maintain the roads and traffic signals, properly design intersections, install signage, or the negligent actions of an employee driving a city vehicle.
Negligent Security
Negligent security can occur in public spaces such as parks, museums, and government buildings if the city fails to provide adequate security measures to protect visitors from harm.
An Attorney Can Help
If you have suffered a personal injury in Las Vegas, you may be able to sue the City of Las Vegas for damages. However, the legal requirements and limitations of pursuing a claim against the city are complex. As a result, it is critical to seek the assistance of an experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyer who can provide trusted guidance and skilled representation throughout the legal process. With the help of an attorney, you may be able to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from your injury.