What to Do if You're Injured on Government Property in Tennessee

Feb 6
3 min read

A trip to the local post office, a walk through a public park, or a visit to a county courthouse should not end in a trip to the emergency room. However, poorly maintained sidewalks, hazardous stairs, or negligent government employees can lead to serious accidents. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering: Can you sue the government?

Filing a claim against a public entity is significantly different from a standard personal injury case. At Richards & Colburn Law, we understand the specific hurdles Tennessee residents face when seeking justice for injuries sustained on public property. Here is what you need to know about your rights and the steps you must take.

Can You Sue the Government for Negligence?

The short answer is yes, but with major caveats. Historically, the legal doctrine of "sovereign immunity" protected government entities from being sued. However, the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA) provides specific exceptions that waive this immunity, allowing citizens to seek compensation for damages caused by government negligence.

Understanding Government Liability in Tennessee

While you can pursue a claim, the process is governed by strict rules. Immunity is typically waived for injuries resulting from, but not limited to:

Unsafe streets, alleys, or sidewalks.
Dangerous or defective public buildings.
Negligent operation of motor vehicles by government employees.

One of the most critical factors in suing the government is the notice requirement. Unlike private cases, you often have a very short window, sometimes as little as 60 to 180 days, depending on the municipality, to provide formal notice of your intent to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover forever.

Common Types of Injuries on Government Property

Government negligence can manifest in many ways. At Richards & Colburn Law, we see various incidents where public agencies failed in their duty to keep premises safe:

Slip and Falls: Cracked sidewalks, ice-covered municipal parking lots, or wet floors in a school hallway without warning signs.
Public Building Hazards: Broken handrails in a courthouse, falling debris, or inadequate lighting in a public housing complex.
Government Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving city buses, police cruisers, or utility trucks.
Infrastructure Failures: Missing stop signs, malfunctioning traffic signals, or large potholes that cause bicycle or motorcycle accidents.

Immediate Steps to Take After an Injury on Public Property

If you are injured, the actions you take in the minutes and hours following the incident are vital to the success of your claim.

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Additionally, medical records provide the primary evidence of your injuries and their link to the accident.
Report the Incident: Alert the building manager, the park ranger, or the police. Ensure an official report is filed, but avoid making detailed statements about fault.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard that caused your injury (e.g., the specific patch of ice or the broken stair). If there were witnesses, get their contact information.
Preserve Records: Keep your clothing, medical bills, and any correspondence from government agencies.

When to Contact a Tennessee Personal Injury Attorney

Can you sue the government for negligence on your own? While it is possible, it is extremely risky. Government attorneys are aggressive in defending immunity, and a single clerical error can result in a case being dismissed.

Richards & Colburn Law specializes in navigating these complex waters. We investigate the incident, identify the correct government entity to serve, and ensure all statutory deadlines are met. Our goal is to handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on your recovery.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to government negligence in Tennessee, do not wait. Contact Richards & Colburn Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can protect your rights.

Image source: SORASIT SRIKHAM-ON / Shutterstock