If you were involved in a car crash in Washington, D.C., one of the most important things to consider is how you can recover compensation for your various damages and losses. While you are generally required to use your own insurance for injury-related expenses, you may be able to sue for property damage. For more information, continue reading and set up your free consultation with a Washington, D.C. auto accident lawyer today.
Does Washington, D.C. Have No-Fault Laws?
Yes, Washington, D.C. does have no-fault accident laws. This faultless system means that all drivers must purchase no-fault insurance coverage, called PIP (personal injury protection). PIP covers injury-related expenses after an accident, regardless of who caused the collision. All drivers file an initial claim with their own provider under this coverage.
No-fault insurance is designed to reduce the number of lawsuits filed for car accidents to prevent backlogs in the legal system and lower expenses for both insurance providers and drivers. Additionally, it eliminates the need to prove fault before receiving compensation, which leads to faster payouts and claim resolutions.
Can I Sue for Property Damage After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.?
While Washington, D.C. operates under a no-fault accident system, these laws only apply to injuries and injury-related expenses. Property damage is handled under a fault-based system, meaning that the at-fault driver is responsible for damage to the other vehicles and property involved.
There are several ways that you can recover compensation for property damage after an accident, one of which is through a lawsuit. However, you may first want to turn to your own collision insurance if you have opted into the coverage. Collision coverage reimburses damage to a car from collisions with other vehicles and objects, regardless of who is at fault.
You can also file a claim against the other driver’s liability insurance. If you can prove that the other party was responsible for causing the collision, you can be reimbursed for your damages through their insurance provider.
However, depending on the details of the situation, you may be forced to resort to filing a lawsuit against the negligent driver. If you do not have collision coverage, the other driver is uninsured, the other driver’s insurance provider denied your claim, or disputes have arisen regarding liability, suing the other party may be in your best interest.
How Can I Sue for Property Damage?
If you are planning to file a lawsuit against the other driver for your property damage, it is important that you consult with a skilled attorney. Your lawyer will help evaluate your situation and build a strong case with effective evidence.
Gather proof establishing the other party’s liability and the connection between their actions and your property damage. You must abide by the statute of limitations, which is 3 years for property damage in D.C.
The legal process can be complex, so work with a skilled attorney at Trombly & Singer, PLLC for skilled advice and representation.