Am I Entitled to Compensation After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?

Whether a minor fender-bender on K Street or a serious collision on the Beltway, a car accident can feel emotionally overwhelming and—in some serious cases—financially straining. Each year, hundreds of Washington, D.C. residents get into car accidents without a clear idea of where to turn.

If you have been in an accident, a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King will give you seasoned, personalized legal guidance and help you claim the compensation you deserve.

What Steps Should You Take Immediately After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?

First and foremost, after a car accident, seek medical attention. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, some serious conditions, including whiplash and traumatic brain injuries, may not present symptoms immediately.

Document the accident scene thoroughly by taking photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and visible injuries; contact the Metropolitan Police Department to file a report, as this official document can bolster your side of the story if you need to pursue an insurance claim or legal lawsuit.

Exchange complete information with all parties involved, including names, contact details, license numbers, and insurance information. Remember that your statements at the scene matter, so avoid speculating about or admitting fault.

How Is Fault Determined in Your Washington, D.C. Car Accident?

Washington, D.C. follows a contributory negligence rule that can significantly impact your compensation eligibility. Under this strict standard, if you bear any responsibility, even just 1%, for causing the accident, you cannot claim any compensation for the accident.

Insurance companies understand this rule and may attempt to assign partial blame to you to eliminate their payout obligations. In order to counter these tactics, you need to investigate police reports, examine physical evidence from the accident scene, review traffic camera footage, and collect statements from witnesses to build a foolproof case.

What Types of Compensation Can You Receive After a Car Accident in D.C.?

Following a car accident in Washington, D.C., if you file a successful insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, you can recover several forms of compensation to pay for medical expenses, emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and anticipated future medical needs related to your injuries.

Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek lost wages for missed workdays and loss of earning capacity. Courts can also award non-economic damages to victims to account for their pain, suffering, physical discomfort, and emotional distress.

Can You Sue After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?

If your insurance coverage cannot sufficiently cover your damages, or when the insurer refuses a fair settlement, you can consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, Washington, D.C., imposes a three-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits. In other words, you must initiate legal action within three years of the date of your incident. If you miss this deadline, you may forfeit your ability to seek compensation through the court system.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Your Case?

Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers provide invaluable assistance throughout your claim process by doing the following:

Conducting thorough investigations and gathering crucial evidence that might otherwise remain undiscovered.
Handling all communications with insurance companies.
Protecting you from making statements that might unintentionally damage your claim.
Accurately calculating the full value of your damages, including future medical needs and long-term impacts.
Counter lowball offers and delay tactics by insurance companies.
Navigating all legal procedures, filing required documentation, conducting depositions, and presenting your case persuasively before a judge or jury if you need to go to court.

Protect Your Rights with a Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King

When you face the aftermath of a car accident, trust an experienced Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King to champion your rights. Call us at 202-331-1963 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. 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.