Does Washington, D.C. Follow a No-Fault System for Car Accidents?

If you were injured in a car accident in Washington, D.C. due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. However, understanding how D.C.’s unique insurance laws work is critical to protecting your rights. Without a solid grasp of these rules, you could jeopardize your ability to recover damages. Fortunately, a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can help guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Does No-Fault Mean in Washington, D.C.?

Washington, D.C. uses a modified no-fault insurance system. This means that after an accident, injured parties typically seek compensation from their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage—regardless of who caused the crash.

However, D.C. differs from traditional no-fault states like Florida and Pennsylvania in key ways:

PIP coverage is optional in D.C. If you decline PIP when purchasing your policy, your compensation options after a crash may be limited.
If you do have PIP, you must choose within 60 days of the accident whether to:

File a PIP claim, or
Pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault driver
You cannot do both under D.C.’s system.

Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in Washington, D.C.

Drivers in the District of Columbia must carry the following minimum coverage:

$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability.
$10,000 per accident for property damage liability.
$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for uninsured motorist bodily injury.
$5,000 per accident (with a $200 deductible) for uninsured motorist property damage.

Note: These are just minimums. Many drivers purchase higher limits for better protection.

When Can You Step Outside the No-Fault System?

You may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your injuries meet any of the following criteria:

Medical expenses exceed your PIP coverage.
You suffer permanent scarring or disfigurement.
You are completely disabled for at least 180 days.

If any of these apply, you can seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages not covered by PIP.

How Does Contributory Negligence Work in D.C.?

Washington, D.C. follows one of the strictest legal standards in the country: pure contributory negligence. If you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any compensation.

This harsh rule underscores why it’s so important to gather strong evidence and work with a skilled attorney who can defend your claim from any allegations of shared fault.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?

To protect your rights and preserve your claim:

Call 911. Report the accident and seek medical help.
Document everything. Take photos of the scene, vehicles, your injuries, and any relevant road conditions.
Notify your insurance company. Report the crash, even if you’re unsure who was at fault.
Collect evidence. Request the police report, gather medical records, and save all related receipts and bills.
Track your income. Document lost wages or income from missed work.
Decide on your claim. If you have PIP, you have 60 days to choose between using it and filing a third-party claim.

The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the better your chances of a successful outcome—especially under D.C.’s unforgiving negligence laws.

Contact a Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate D.C.’s complex insurance system alone. Contact a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. To schedule a free consultation, call 202-331-1963 or contact us online. We have offices in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, and proudly serve clients throughout 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.