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If you’re involved in a fender bender with another driver, you’ll likely exchange insurance information and file a claim. Is this also the case when it comes to a state vehicle insurance claim? Discover the intricacies of filing a government vehicle accident claim and how to determine liability in these cases.
Types of Government Vehicles That May Be Involved in a Crash
Various state and federal vehicles could cause an accident on local roadways. A government fleet accident report could cite any of the following vehicles:
- Police cruisers
- Fire trucks
- Ambulances
- Utility trucks
- School buses
These vehicles may damage other cars on the road due to defective parts, reckless driving, or other common causes of accidents. If you’re injured or incur property damage from a public sector car or truck, an experienced personal injury lawyer can review your government vehicle accident claim.
How Federal Vehicle Crash Compensation Differs From Private Insurance Claims
Drivers or pedestrians involved in a crash with a private vehicle may opt to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s auto insurer. The insurance company will ask for information about the crash and the damage. In many cases, an insurance adjuster will conduct an investigation to determine liability and calculate a settlement offer.
The claimant could accept the offer or negotiate it with the help of an attorney. If they refuse to settle, they could file a lawsuit.
A government vehicle accident claim is slightly different. Claimants must first notify the appropriate government agency and provide the following details:
- Their name and contact information
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- The contact information of their legal representative
- HIPAA compliance forms from treating healthcare providers
- Documents showing lost wages stemming from injuries sustained in the accident
- Property damage assessments
Legal professionals recommend sending this notice soon after the accident. Once the agency receives the notification letter, they have 90 days to respond. If it denies the claim or does not respond, the claimant has 180 days from the denial date or the end of the required 90-day period to file a lawsuit.
Who Is Liable for a Municipal Vehicle Damage Reimbursement?
Official vehicle collision liability typically falls on the government agency that operates the vehicle. If a driver acts negligently on the road or doesn’t undergo the proper training to operate such vehicles, their employer will be responsible for their actions.
What if an accident occurs because of a defective part? Cases like these also hold the government entity liable. Since the agency is responsible for maintaining its fleet, any accidents stemming from mechanical failures may form the basis of a claim.
What To Expect When Seeking a Public Sector Car Accident Settlement in Oklahoma
If you’re hurt or face property damage after a crash involving a government vehicle, you may be wondering about possible financial compensation. If state or federal officials approve your government vehicle accident claim, they may extend a settlement offer. A personal injury attorney can review the offer and determine whether it fairly reflects your damages.
Please note that, similar to insurance policy limits, government agencies place caps on settlements for car accidents. In Oklahoma, the Governmental Tort Claims Act determines the following payout caps:
- $25,000 for property damage
- $175,000 per person in an accident
- $1,000,000 in total claims from one single incident
Consult an Experienced Car Accident Attorney for Legal Advice
Filing a government vehicle accident claim may seem daunting. If you’re looking to pursue this course of action, consult the legal team at Bryan Garrett PLLC. Our firm handles various types of car accident lawsuits in Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas.
Call (405) 972-6931 to request a consultation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):
What types of vehicles are considered government vehicles?
Government vehicles can include police cruisers, fire trucks, ambulances, utility trucks, and school buses.
How does a government vehicle accident claim differ from a private insurance claim?
Government claims require notifying the specific agency with detailed information and follow a
different timeline for response and lawsuits.
Who is typically liable in a government vehicle accident?
Liability usually falls on the government agency operating the vehicle, even in cases of driver negligence or defective parts.
