Injured on Public Property in Florida: Can You Sue?
Public parks, sidewalks, libraries, and government buildings should be safe for everyone, but accidents still happen. If you’ve been injured on public property in Florida, you may be wondering whether you can hold a city, county, or state agency accountable. The good news is that government liability in Florida does exist in certain situations, but filing a claim comes with specific challenges and legal deadlines that don’t apply to private property cases. Call Fulgencio Law to speak with our proficient Tampa premises liability lawyer today.
Understanding Government Liability in Florida
In general, Florida’s sovereign immunity laws protect government entities from being sued unless they waive that protection. Fortunately, Florida has passed legislation allowing injured individuals to sue for negligence in many circumstances. This includes slip-and-fall accidents, unsafe conditions, and other hazards on government-managed properties.
To pursue a valid claim, you must prove:
- The government entity owed a duty of care to maintain safe premises
- That duty was breached through negligence (e.g., failure to repair broken steps or remove hazards)
- Your injury was directly caused by that negligence
However, you must provide written notice of your claim within three years of the incident, and you cannot file a lawsuit until after a 180-day investigation period has passed.
Common Types of Public Property Accidents
Accidents on public property are often caused by poor maintenance, inadequate safety measures, or failure to warn of known hazards. Some of the most common incidents include:
- Slip-and-falls on wet or uneven walkways
- Tripping over cracked sidewalks or exposed utility covers
- Injuries in public buildings with poor lighting or faulty handrails
In cases like these, a Tampa personal injury lawyer can investigate the scene, gather evidence, and determine whether a government entity is at fault.
What Makes Suing the Government Different?
Suing a government agency is not the same as filing a claim against a private business or property owner. Government claims in Florida come with stricter rules, shorter deadlines, and capped damages.
Key differences include:
- Notice requirement: You must notify the appropriate agency before filing a lawsuit
- Damage limits: Florida law caps recoverable damages at $200,000 per person or $300,000 per incident
- No punitive damages: Unlike private cases, you cannot seek punitive damages against a government agency
These restrictions make it critical to work with a lawyer who understands how to navigate the process successfully.
Get Help From a Tampa Premises Liability Lawyer
If you’ve been injured on public property, don’t assume you’re out of options. You may still be entitled to compensation, but you’ll need experienced legal guidance to build a strong case under Florida’s unique legal standards. Whether you slipped in a city building or were hurt in a public park, a skilled advocate can protect your rights.
Call Fulgencio Law at (813) 463-0123 today to speak with our knowledgeable Tampa premises liability lawyer. Our team understands the complexities of government liability in Florida and is ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether you need a dedicated advocate or an experienced Tampa slip-and-fall lawyer, we’re here to fight for your recovery.
