Being involved in a car accident might be one of the most challenging things that you have ever endured. These accidents are made even worse when they involve a negligent government employee, specifically a police cruiser. Determining liability might not always be black and white, which is why you may need the help of an experienced attorney to assist you in your time of need.

Employee Liability in Police Vehicle Accidents 

What is vicarious liability? This is when you are able to bring a claim against an employer when an employee was working within their scope of employment. In these cases, especially those involving a negligent police officer, you may find that you are able to bring a government claim if you give enough notice. The entity that you would be bringing a claim against is the municipality for which the police officer works.

You may find that bringing a claim against a government entity is not always an easy thing to do. However, you should note that it is not impossible, unlike years in the past. When a federal government employee has acted in a negligent fashion, you will have to file a claim under what is known as the Federal Tort Claims Act.

Proving That a Police Officer Was at Fault 

Investigators will look at the damage to your vehicle, which will show them who may have caused the accident. One of the most useful pieces of evidence, however, is police vehicle dashcam footage. All police vehicles have dashboard cameras that record what happens within and outside their vehicles. Police must always be open and honest about this information and you might be able to file a request for these videos through the police department.

If there were traffic cameras in the area, you will also likely be able to obtain these. Traffic cameras will show camera footage from businesses or at an intersection. Bystanders might also be useful in speaking up about what they witnessed at the time of the accident. This is why you should always attempt to gather witness statements of those nearby before the evidence disappears forever.

Compensation in Your Police Accident Case

If you have been hit by a police vehicle and believe that the other party is at fault, you may be able to compensate for a wide array of aspects. These include lost earnings when you are unable to return to work, many different types of medical bills, and money to replace your vehicle. You may also find that you can compensate for pain and suffering and an array of emotional distress damages. One of the best ways to ensure that you compensate for these aspects is to speak with a car accident attorney immediately following your collision.

Speaking with an Attorney After Your Accident 

Being involved in a car accident can be a scary and confusing time for anyone. This is made even more complicated when the accident involves an at-fault government entity or individual. Because these accidents can come with many complexities, you should always speak with a Florida car accident attorney about how you can move forward. Our skilled attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are here to help you determine what your claim is worth as you navigate the legal system for the first time. Please contact our skilled law firm at 904-647-2296 for the help you deserve.