Do I Have a Car Accident Claim in Washington, D.C.?

Determining whether you have a valid claim to cover damages caused by a car accident in Washington, D.C. depends on factors like the circumstances of the accident, the parties involved, and the laws governing liability and damages. Every potential claim is different, so becoming familiar with the filing process makes sense after a crash.
What Are the Legal Grounds for Filing a Car Accident Claim in Washington, D.C.?
To file a car accident claim in Washington, D.C., you must establish that another party was at fault for the collision. The city follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages only if you did not contribute to the accident in any way. This strict standard requires demonstrating that the other party’s actions directly caused the incident and your resulting losses.
Legal grounds for a claim may include reckless driving, failure to obey traffic laws, distracted driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can be critical in proving fault.
What Types of Compensation Are Available in a Car Accident Claim?
You may be entitled to compensation for various damages if you have a valid car accident claim. Economic damages can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages may address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Recovering these damages requires clear evidence of liability and the impact the accident has had on your life. Police reports, traffic camera footage, skid marks, medical records, employment documentation, and testimony from professionals who have treated or evaluated you can support your claim.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Washington, D.C.?
The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for filing a claim. In Washington, D.C., you generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. For property damage claims, the time limit is also three years.
If the accident resulted in a fatality and you are filing a wrongful death claim, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the individual’s death. Failing to file within these timeframes will likely result in the court dismissing your case, barring you from recovering damages.
Does Washington, D.C. Have a No-Fault Rule?
Yes, D.C. is a no-fault car insurance jurisdiction; you must notify your insurance company after a car accident, even when another driver is allegedly responsible. If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, you may be able to file a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage. This type of insurance is mandatory in Washington, D.C. and is designed to cover damages when the other party lacks adequate coverage. Filing an uninsured motorist claim involves specific requirements, and an attorney can walk you through the steps.
Washington, D.C., also follows the contributory negligence system. If it is determined that you contributed to a crash, you cannot receive compensation for your financial damages.
Can I File a Claim if I Was a Passenger?
Passengers injured in car accidents have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver, whether that is the driver of the vehicle in which you were traveling or another party.
Passengers are generally not considered to be at fault for a collision, so the contributory negligence rule is less likely to apply. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages related to the accident.
Skilled Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Will Tell You if You Have a Car Accident Case
If you were involved in a car accident and need guidance on your legal options, a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer is ready to help. For a free consultation, call the Law Offices of Duane O. King at 202-331-1963 or submit our online form. Located in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.