Published on behalf of In large cities like Philadelphia, slip and fall or trip and fall accidents occur every day. In many of these kinds of situations, another party may bear liability for causing the accident. Common defendants include:
- businesses,
- stores,
- individuals, and
- government agencies.
Slip and Fall Tort Claims Against Government Agencies in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, government agencies are generally immune from being sued. However, there are several exceptions for government buildings or government property. In situations where an accident or injury is caused by a defect of government owned or maintained property or buildings, the government agency can be sued under Pennsylvania tort laws.
Common agencies which may bear liability in a Pennsylvania slip and fall case include: city agencies, such as the City of Philadelphia, county agencies, and state agencies, such as SEPTA or Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation.
Succeeding in a Slip and Fall Tort Claim Against a Government Agency in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania tort claims laws, successful negligence claims against government agencies require proof that the agency knew of the defect or should have known about the defect under the circumstances and that the defect was the proximate cause of the accident and injuries. Prior notice is crucial, although not necessary. It is ideal to be able to show that the agency had notice prior to the accident. However, if there is no evidence of actual notice, showing how long a defect existed may be enough to support an argument that the agency should have known about it.
There is a 6 month or 180 day notice requirement which applies to all cases against a government agency. For more information, contact a Pennsylvania slip and fall lawyer.
Related Pennsylvania Sidewalk Accident Legal Articles:
- Pennsylvania Sidewalk Slip, Trip and Fall Accident Liability
- Pennsylvania Sidewalk Accident Law – Defendants in a Sidewalk Accident Lawsuit
- Pennsylvania Sidewalk Accident Law – Local Government Liability
Pennsylvania Slip and Fall Lawyers
The slip and fall accident lawyers at Schwartz & Blackman handle cases in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area and always offer a free consultation:
- PA: Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Norristown, Philadelphia
- NJ: Atlantic County, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Camden, Cherry Hill, New Jersey shore cities
*This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is important to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
Published: September 5, 2012