Can You Sue a Government Entity for Your Buffalo Personal Injury?

You're strolling down Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo, NY, soaking in the sights. Then, your foot catches on a jagged sidewalk crack, and down you go. Or maybe you're stuck at a red light on Niagara Street when a city-owned truck slams into you from behind.

Accidents like these happen all the time, and when they do, you’re left wondering: Can you actually hold a government agency accountable for your injuries? The answer is yes, but it’s not easy. 

Suing the government comes with a whole set of rules, tight deadlines, and plenty of red tape. The personal injury lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, have the skills and experience to tackle even the toughest cases.

Our trusted Buffalo law firm can take on the legal battle for your rights and win it. Whether you need a car accident lawyer to take on a government entity or help with a car accident injury claim, we've got your back. 

Stand Up, Buffalo! When a City, State, or Federal Agency Crosses the Line, Fight Back

Understanding the Legal Grounds

Going up against a government entity sounds intimidating, but guess what? They’re not untouchable. 

If their negligence caused your injury, you have the right to take action. Whether it’s an unsafe road, a reckless city bus driver, or a neglected public park, government agencies can and should be held accountable. Hiring a Buffalo personal injury lawyer is the first way to take action.

Criteria for a Valid Claim

Not every accident leads to a successful claim against the government. To have a solid case, you need to prove:

• Duty of Care – The government has a responsibility to keep you safe. Buffalo is responsible for maintaining roads, sidewalks, and public spaces. If they fail, it puts you at risk.
• Breach of Duty – They dropped the ball. Reports show Buffalo’s roads are in terrible shape, with crumbling pavement and potholes causing accidents left and right.
• Causation – Their negligence directly led to your injury. For example, swerving to dodge a pothole and crashing.
• Damages – Your injuries must be real, whether it’s broken bones, lost wages, or emotional trauma. Without proof, you won’t get New York injury compensation.

Rules of the Fight: Taking on Government Giants in Buffalo’s Legal Arena

Decoding Sovereign Immunity

Ever heard the phrase “you can’t fight City Hall”? Well, that used to be true. 

Government agencies used to be immune from lawsuits. But over time, the rules changed. Now, in New York, you can sue the government—but only under specific conditions. That’s where things get tricky.

Navigating Legal Exceptions

The government still gets special protections. If your injury happened because of a policy decision, you might be out of luck. But if it was due to poor maintenance or negligence, you may have a case. 

Understanding the difference is key—and that’s why having the right car crash legal representation matters.

Tick-Tock, Buffalo! The Clock is Against You in Government Injury Claims

Critical Time Limits

When it comes to suing the government, time isn’t on your side. 

Unlike regular personal injury cases, you don’t have years to decide. In New York, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. After that, you have one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit. 

Miss these deadlines, and your case is over before it even starts.

Filing Procedures Explained

Filing a Notice of Claim isn’t just red tape—it’s a legal must. Your notice should include:

• Your Name and Address – Basic but necessary.
• What Happened – A clear, detailed account of the accident.
• Time and Place – The exact location and date of the incident.
• Your Injuries – Medical records, the best possible photos, and evidence proving your damages.

Buffalo’s Dark Side: Shocking Cases of Public Transportation Crashes, Sidewalk Disasters & Police Brutality

Case Studies That Shock

Buffalo has seen its fair share of government negligence. Take for example the multiple cases of NFTA Metro buses hitting pedestrians, leading to injuries. And it’s not just buses—poorly maintained public spaces and reckless government employees have also caused harm to innocent people.

Analyzing Past Incidents

One of the most infamous cases? The Buffalo police shoving incident in 2020, where officers pushed a 75-year-old protester, leaving him with severe head injuries. The case made national headlines and raised serious concerns about police accountability.

The Price of Justice: How Compensation Works in Buffalo’s Government Liability Cases

Breaking Down Damages

Winning your case means financial recovery. Damages in government lawsuits include:

• Economic Damages – Medical bills, lost wages, and rehab costs. A hospital stay in Buffalo can easily cost thousands.
• Non-Economic Damages – Pain, suffering, and emotional distress. These damages can vary widely but often make up a huge part of settlements.

If your injuries happened on the job, you may also have a workplace injury claim, especially if a city or state agency played a role in the accident.

Get Dedicated Legal Support in Buffalo with Horn Wright, LLP

Suing the government isn’t easy, but it’s possible. 

The Buffalo personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, fight for people like you every day. We know the ins and outs of government liability cases, and we’re ready to take on the legal battle for you. 

We’re here to make sure you don’t get pushed around by the system. Fight for justice with one of the best law firms in America by your side.

Call our office today for your free, no-obligation consultation.