QUESTION

Can you sue a jail for scabies?

Asked on Nov 27th, 2012 on Personal Injury - Montana
More details to this question:
My fiancรฉ contracted scabies in jail most likely from dirty bedding provided by the jail. I contracted scabies from visiting him in jail. Can we sue?
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5 ANSWERS

Personal Injury Attorney serving Charlotte, NC at Paul Whitfield and Associates P.A.
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If you can prove your problem came as a result of negligence of the jail and if the jail has insurance to cover such an issuer, perhaps so. See a personal injury lawyer in your county.
Answered on Nov 29th, 2012 at 8:13 AM

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Personal Injury Attorney serving Indianapolis, IN at Bernard Huff
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First, you should contact your city's legal department to file a complaint initially to see if the matter can be settled.
Answered on Nov 29th, 2012 at 8:00 AM

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Criminal Defense Attorney serving Anderson, SC at The David F. Stoddard Law Firm
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You can. I do not know if you will actually win. You would probably have to show that the jail was negligent (in other words, there is no automatic liability for diseases that you catch while in jail). Also, if it is a condition that clears up quickly, there may be insufficient damages to make a lawsuit worthwhile.
Answered on Nov 29th, 2012 at 7:01 AM

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Ronald A. Steinberg
The short answer is NO. You cannot sue the government for "ordinary negligence." Only for intentional actions, gross negligence, or civil rights violations. I do not think that dirty bedding is a civil rights issue. You can always seek a second opinion. Personally, I would find another fiance who would be able to work, be a family man, etc. It sounds like your dream guy is going to be tied up for a while.
Answered on Nov 29th, 2012 at 6:53 AM

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Plaintiff Animal Bites Attorney serving Missoula, MT at Bulman Law Associates PLLC
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Yes but the case will likely be dismissed. Also, your damages may not support the costs of a lawsuit. Jurors also have little sympathy for cons.
Answered on Nov 29th, 2012 at 5:23 AM

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