Can I Sue A City Or County In Texas?

Government entities in Texas are typically protected by sovereign immunity, it can be hard to bring a lawsuit against a city or county.

However, Texas law does allow it under some circumstances, including for motor vehicle accidents.

Texas citizens can hold a government entity or municipality liable for specific types of damages, which are outlined in the Texas Tort Claims Act. However, to do so, you must notify the government entity in question within a certain time frame, often just 90 days after the accident.

Because of this tight deadline and the hurdles that must be cleared to demonstrate that the city or county is at fault for your injuries, you should contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible following the accident.

So … Why Does Texas Have ‘Sovereign Immunity’?

Texas, like other states, has a concept of sovereign immunity, meaning the state and its subdivisions (cities, counties) are generally protected from lawsuits. However, the Texas Tort Claims Act (linked above) partially waives this immunity.

This act allows lawsuits against the state, cities, and counties for certain types of claims, including those arising from property damage, personal injury, and death caused by a government employee’s negligence within the scope of their employment.

The Texas Tort Claims Act outlines specific circumstances under which a lawsuit can be brought. For example, it might cover incidents like:
* Accidents involving a city bus.
* Slip and falls in a government building.
* Injuries at a public hospital.
* Injuries caused by road maintenance or other government actions.

Limits on Damages

The TTCA also includes limitations on the amount of damages that can be recovered. Due to the complexities and deadlines involved, you should consult with an experienced personal injuryattorney to understand your rights and navigate the process.