What is the statute of limitations for a car accident claim in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the general statute of limitations for car accident claims is 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301. This is general educational information; your actual deadline may differ based on the facts of your case. Consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia for advice specific to your situation.

When does the statute of limitations clock start in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the clock generally starts on the date of the injury or incident. Some claims may apply a discovery rule when the injury was not immediately apparent.

What if my car accident claim is against a government entity in District of Columbia?

If your claim is against a government entity in District of Columbia — such as a city, county, state agency, or public employee — a separate notice of claim is typically required within 30 to 180 days. Missing the notice deadline can bar your claim entirely, independent of the statute of limitations.

District of Columbia Car Accident Statute of Limitations

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District of Columbia

Car Accident

General statute of limitations

years to file

In District of Columbia, a car accident claim must generally be filed within 3 years of the date of injury. Filing after this window typically bars the claim permanently.

Governing statute: D.C. Code § 12-301

Clock typically starts

Date of injury or incident

The general rule is that the SOL begins running on the date the injury occurred. Some states apply a discovery rule if the injury was not immediately apparent.

Government defendants

Notice of claim may be required

If your claim is against a government entity — a city, county, state agency, or public employee — most states require a separate notice of claim within 30 to 180 days. Missing this notice deadline can bar your claim entirely, independent of the SOL.

Tolling — when the clock may pause

Motor vehicle claims may involve additional notice requirements if a government vehicle was involved. Uninsured motorist claims may have separate contractual deadlines. Minor claimants typically have additional time after reaching age 18.

Educational information only — not legal advice

This result reflects the general statutory period for car accident claims in District of Columbia based on publicly available statutes. Your actual deadline may differ based on the specific facts of your case, applicable tolling rules, discovery rule application, government defendant requirements, and other circumstances. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Caseworth makes no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of this information. Consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia before making any decisions about your claim.

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