Injured by a City Vehicle in Los Angeles?
Here’s What You Need to Know
When we think of car accidents in Los Angeles, we often picture freeway crashes or distracted drivers. But many serious accidents are caused by city-owned vehicles—like street sweepers, garbage trucks, utility vans, and other municipal vehicles operating in busy residential neighborhoods.
Whether it happens in a narrow Echo Park alley or during early morning service in Koreatown, these accidents are legally complex and often harder to resolve than a typical car crash.
Why City Vehicle Accidents Are So Complicated
If you’re hit by a government-operated vehicle, your case isn’t just another insurance claim. It becomes a claim against a public entity, which triggers a different legal process altogether.
Here’s why it’s more difficult:
Strict deadlines: In most cases, you must file a claim with the city or agency within 6 months of the accident.
Government immunity: Public agencies are often protected by laws that limit liability, making it harder to sue.
Paperwork and red tape: Filing a government claim requires specific forms and procedures that must be followed exactly.
Lowball settlements: Cities may try to downplay the accident or quickly offer minimal compensation before you've fully evaluated your injuries.
That’s why it’s critical to take the right steps immediately—and avoid common pitfalls.
What to Do After Being Hit by a City or Municipal Vehicle
If you’re injured in a crash involving a city vehicle in Los Angeles, here’s how to protect yourself:
Call 911 and report the accident so it’s officially documented.
Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the government vehicle (including license plates and department names).
Get witness information, especially if the driver denies fault.
Seek medical care right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
Do not delay—file a claim with the city or agency within 6 months of the accident.
Contact an attorney before signing anything or giving statements to city representatives.
A missed deadline or incomplete claim could cause you to lose your right to recover compensation altogether.
Why You Need an Attorney for City Vehicle Accidents
Handling a personal injury claim against a city or municipality is not the same as dealing with a regular driver. At Crowley Law PC, we understand the complexities of government liability and can help you:
Determine which agency is responsible (e.g., LA Sanitation, LADWP, DOT)
Meet all legal filing requirements and deadlines
Gather evidence to prove fault
Push back on denials or low settlement offers
Pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term impact
We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need and the compensation you deserve.
Injured by a Street Sweeper, Garbage Truck, or City Vehicle? Call Us Today.
If you or someone you love was injured by a municipal vehicle in Los Angeles, don’t navigate the red tape alone. Crowley Law PC will fight to protect your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.
Here to make it right, when you’ve been wronged!
Crowley Law PC
📞 (213) 325-5248
