In Washington, D.C., personal injury claims face a strict 3-year statute of limitations under D.C. Code § 12-301, and the city’s contributory negligence rule bars recovery if you are even 1% at fault. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Washington, D.C. (100% favorable outcome rate).

Personal Injury Lawyer in Washington, D.C. — What Are Your Rights After an Accident?

Last verified: 2026-04 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code § 12-301 (official D.C. Code)

Under D.C. Code § 12-301, most personal injury claims must be filed within 3 years from the date of injury. Wrongful death claims have a 2-year deadline under D.C. Code § 16-2701. Washington, D.C. follows contributory negligence, meaning if you are found even 1% at fault, you cannot recover any damages. This strict rule makes immediate legal guidance critical after any accident.

For more information, see the DC Courts official website.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Get medical help immediately after an accident.
2. Preserve Evidence: Take photos of the scene, gather witness contact information, and keep all medical records.
3. Report the Accident: File a police report if applicable, especially for car accidents or incidents in public places.
4. Contact a Lawyer: Speak with a personal injury lawyer before giving any recorded statements to insurance companies.
5. File Your Claim: Your lawyer will file a complaint in DC Superior Court Civil Division at 500 Indiana Avenue NW.
6. Prepare for Mediation: DC courts often require mediation; your lawyer will prepare your case for this step.

In Washington, D.C., personal injury claims are subject to a 3-year statute of limitations and a contributory negligence rule that can bar recovery entirely.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented case result in Washington, D.C. across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395, I-66, and Constitution Ave. We serve all neighborhoods in Washington, D.C., including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, U Street, Logan Circle, Foggy Bottom, Navy Yard, Petworth, Brookland, Anacostia, Southwest Waterfront, Woodley Park, Cleveland Park, Spring Valley, Forest Hills, Chevy Chase DC, American University Park, Wesley Heights, Bloomingdale, Tenleytown, Friendship Heights, Glover Park, Mount Pleasant, Shaw, Chinatown/Penn Quarter, NoMa, Ivy City, Eckington, Deanwood, Hillcrest, Congress Heights, Barracks Row, and Eastern Market.

If you are looking for a personal injury lawyer near Washington, D.C., contact us for a consultation.

Last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.