Making a claim against a governmental entity, such as a city or county, does have some different rules, and these vary from place to place according to local laws or ordinances. Many government entities have a rule that you must file a “statement of intent to file a lawsuit” against them before filing the actual lawsuit. And then the time frame is shorter than the regular statute of limitations (for example, you may need to give 60 days notice of intent to file). And they may have other ordinances about statutes of limitation. If you miss your time frame, you may be kissing your case good-bye. A local attorney who specializes in personal injury or slip and fall cases will be aware of the procedure.

In many instances, government agencies are immune from general damages, and you may only claim your actual special damages – such as your medical expenses and other direct costs. Just because the government’s lawyer says they have immunity, don’t worry. Talk to an attorney.

Finally, public entitles have their own claims adjustment office. Negotiation with government adjusters usually is the same as with company adjusters, but settlement dollars may be slimmer with the government. Again, an attorney will have a better handle on how to deal with these people for the best outcome.