Public events, like parades and festivals, can be a joy to attend. However, they can also be dangerous – often packed with hundreds of people, large vehicles and objects, and dozens of other unknowns. There are a myriad of things that can go wrong, leading to injuries. When a serous accident occurs at a public event, here are the parties that may be held liable:
The Municipality
If the municipality where the accident occurred did anything negligent to contribute to the accident, then the city may be held liable for damages. Examples of negligence during a city parade may be failing to properly control traffic; failing to repair broken streets or sidewalks; or any other incident that was caused as a direct result of something the city did or did not do.
As a note, the state of Pennsylvania and its municipalities have waived their right to immunity for accidents involving vehicles, medical professionals, certain personal property, real estate and sidewalks, potholes and other dangerous conditions, animals, National Guard activities, toxins and vaccines, and liquor store sales, according to section 8522 of the state’s Sovereign Immunity Code.
A Business or Organization
Sometimes, an accident is the fault of a business or organization that doesn’t take the proper care necessary to prevent accidents from occurring. Much like city liability, if a business does anything negligent to contribute to an accident’s occurrence, like failing to properly design a float so that objects don’t fall off of it, leading to injury, then the business or organization may be held liable for damages.
An Individual
Parade, festival, and other public event accidents can also be caused by an individual’s negligent actions. For example, the driver of a float may drive the vehicle irresponsibly, hitting a pedestrian. If an individual caused the accident, then the individual will usually be liable for damages.
Filing a Claim for Damages Following an Accident at a Public Event
Whether you’re filing a claim for damages against a government entity, a business or organization, or an individual, you’ll need to gather evidence to prove your claim. Additionally, the rules for filing a claim against each party are slightly different. For instance, if the city was responsible for your accident and injuries, you’ll have to first file a notice of claim before you can file a civil action. And, all civil actions must be filed within two years’ time, according to Pennsylvania law section 5524.
A Pennsylvania Personal Injury Attorney Can Help!
To help you understand liability following a serious accident that occurs at a public event, the Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys at Cordisco & Saile LLC can help you. You can reach us now at 215-642-2335 to schedule your free case consultation today.
