Governmental Immunity

Detroit Roadway & Sidewalk Accident Attorney

In Michigan, property owners can be held liable if someone gets hurt due to dangerous conditions on their property. But the rules are different when the property owner is a governmental entity. The Governmental Tort Liability Act (GTLA) protects government agencies from liability for injuries that occur in the exercise of a governmental function—like operating a public road, park, or building.

The GTLA makes it much more difficult to get compensation for injuries you suffered because of dangers on public property, like a damaged sidewalk or broken stair railing. The trouble is, you have the same pain, medical bills, and lost wages no matter where you were hurt.

Fortunately, there are exceptions to governmental immunity that allow you to recover compensation for your injury. A sidewalk accident attorney who is experienced in this area of the law can help. Contact J.L. Hawkins Law to schedule a free consultation.

How a Sidewalk Accident Attorney Helps

An experienced personal injury attorney can show and prove that your situation falls into one of the narrow exceptions to government immunity, and that you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. The two most common exceptions are:

• Public Building Exception, for injuries caused by a dangerous or defective condition that the government agency knew about, or should have known about; and
• Highway Exception, for injuries caused by defective roads or sidewalks under the control of a government agency.

Your attorney will investigate whether you have a viable claim against the government, gather evidence to prove the elements of your claim, make sure all notice requirements are met, and argue your case in court if it doesn’t settle beforehand.

The J.L. Hawkins Difference

Small details can make or break a government immunity case. Attorney Johnny L. Hawkins has nearly 30 years’ experience as a personal injury and sidewalk accident lawyer; he knows what is needed to prevail in these challenging cases. As a military veteran, Johnny also understands the value of precision and preparation; he will not be out-worked or out-prepared by anyone. Those who are familiar with his work call him “the Warrior Lawyer.”

Johnny is also known for his commitment to, and compassion for, his clients. He understands how a serious injury can disrupt your life; his goal is always for you to feel better after speaking to him than you did before, and to have peace of mind throughout your case.