What happens when an auto accident is caused by government vehicle?
Accidents involving government vehicles follow different rules from those involving private drivers. If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a government vehicle, you need to act fast, understand the legal process, and protect your rights from the beginning.
Here’s what you should know—and what steps to take next.
Step 1: Call the Police and Get Medical Attention
Just like with any auto accident, the priority is safety. Call 911, report the crash, and request medical help if needed.
A police report is critical. It creates an official accident record and identifies the government agency involved. Don’t skip this step, even if the crash seems minor.
Seek medical care immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries take time to show up. A prompt medical exam links your injuries directly to the crash and starts the documentation process.
Step 2: Get as Much Information as Possible
Gathering information is even more critical when a government vehicle is involved. Be sure to collect:
- Name and badge or ID number of the driver
- Government agency that owns the vehicle
- License plate and vehicle number
- Contact information for any witnesses
- Photos of the scene, damage, and injuries
Be polite, but don’t assume that the agency or driver will automatically take responsibility. Accurate records help protect you later.
Step 3: Know the Special Rules for Suing the Government
When a private driver causes a crash, you can typically file a claim against their insurance. However, the process is different if a government agency is at fault.
You may have to file a formal claim against the government entity before you can file a lawsuit. This process is known as giving “notice” of your claim.
In Maryland, for example, if the accident involved a state or local government vehicle, you usually must file a notice of claim with the appropriate agency within one year of the incident. You could lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline.
There are also limits on how much you can recover, depending on which agency is involved.
Step 4: Understand What You Can Recover
If the government is found liable, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
But these claims often face tighter restrictions than regular insurance claims. Agencies may deny responsibility, question your injuries, or try to limit how much they pay.
Step 5: Talk to a Lawyer Early
Because of the strict deadlines and rules, it’s smart to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can:
- Identify which agency is responsible
- File the required paperwork on time
- Handle communication with the government
- Build a strong case on your behalf
Managing a government claim alone can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from an injury.
Were You Involved in a Crash?
Crashes involving government vehicles aren’t handled the same way as other accidents. Filing a successful claim takes careful documentation, quick action, and a clear understanding of legal deadlines.
If you’ve been injured in a collision with a government vehicle, don’t wait. The clock starts ticking as soon as the accident happens.
Contact Shugarman & Mehring today to discuss your options and learn how we can help you protect your rights.
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