Every claim against an authority for damages or injuries alleged to have been caused by the negligent act or omission of the authority shall be presented to the board in writing within fifteen days after the happening of such injury, or damage, signed by the claimant or some person duly authorized to sign for same, and properly verified, stating the time and place at which the injury or damage occurred and a general statement of the cause or circumstances of the death, injury or damages. No action shall be commenced to recover for such death, injury or damages until thirty days after such presentation or unless the board shall sooner deny such claim.