Car accidents in Washington, D.C. can be confusing, especially with its unique blend of local and federal jurisdiction. Whether you were injured in a crash on Constitution Avenue or sideswiped in a residential neighborhood, it’s important to understand your rights under D.C. law. This guide covers everything you need to know about car accident laws in the District of Columbia, including liability, deadlines, insurance rules, personal injury claims, and what to do if you’re involved in a rideshare or uninsured driver accident.
Washington, D.C. Is a No-Fault Jurisdiction
D.C. operates under a no-fault car insurance system. This means that, after most accidents, each driver’s own insurance pays for their medical expenses and lost wages—regardless of who caused the crash.
However, you can step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if:
- Your medical expenses exceed $25,000
- You suffer a serious injury, such as permanent disfigurement or disability
If either of these conditions is met, you can pursue a liability claim against the at-fault party for pain and suffering and other damages.
Pure Contributory Negligence in D.C.
Washington, D.C. follows one of the strictest fault rules in the country: pure contributory negligence. Under this rule, if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering any compensation.
This makes it extremely important to gather solid evidence and consult a personal injury lawyer if liability is disputed.
Required Auto Insurance in Washington, D.C.
Drivers in D.C. must carry the following minimum car insurance coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
D.C. also requires:
- $25,000/$50,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage
- $5,000 uninsured motorist property damage
In addition, D.C. mandates Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage to cover medical expenses and lost income, regardless of fault.
Statute of Limitations in D.C.
If you plan to file a lawsuit after a car accident, you must do so within the following time limits:
- 3 years for personal injury or property damage
- 2 years for wrongful death claims
Failing to meet the statute of limitations will likely result in your case being dismissed.
When to Report a Car Accident
D.C. law requires drivers to report any accident that results in:
- Injury or death
- Property damage that prevents a vehicle from being safely driven
You must contact the Metropolitan Police Department immediately, and if a report is not filed at the scene, you may need to visit a police station to complete one.
Personal Injury Laws in Washington, D.C.
D.C.’s personal injury laws allow victims to pursue compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. In addition to car crashes, this includes:
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents
- Motorcycle wrecks
- Slip and fall injuries
- Defective product claims
There are no damage caps for most personal injury claims in D.C., so you can seek full compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
In a D.C. car accident lawsuit, you may be eligible to recover:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and future income loss
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
An attorney can help you evaluate the full scope of your damages based on the severity of your injuries.
Rideshare Accidents in Washington, D.C.
Uber and Lyft are popular in D.C., and their insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status:
- App on, no ride accepted: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage
- Passenger accepted or onboard: Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage
If you’re hurt as a passenger or hit by a rideshare driver, you may be able to pursue a claim under the company’s commercial policy.
What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
D.C. drivers are required to carry uninsured motorist coverage, so if you’re hit by a driver with no insurance or who flees the scene, your policy may still provide compensation.
This can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Vehicle repair costs
Uninsured motorist coverage is especially important in D.C., where urban traffic often increases the risk of hit-and-run collisions.
Should You Contact a Lawyer?
Given D.C.’s strict contributory negligence laws, hiring a personal injury attorney can make all the difference. A lawyer can help gather evidence, defend against blame-shifting tactics, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Most D.C. car accident lawyers offer free consultations and charge no fees unless they win your case.