How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
All personal injury cases are governed by a statute of limitations, which sets a deadline after the injury or death for filing a claim seeking compensation against the at-fault party. The deadline relevant to different kinds of personal injury cases in Washington, D.C., are as follows:
- Negligence – Within 3 years.
- Negligence Causing Death – Within 2 years.
- Intentional harms – Within 1 year.
- Product liability – Within 3 years.
- Toxic substances – Within 5 years.
- Medical malpractice – Within 3 years, but you must generally give defendants notice at least 90 days before filing your lawsuit.
- Survival actions – The deadline is the same as that of the underlying cause of action that survives the decedent’s death.
In addition to complying with the governing deadline, take note that you must also provide notice when bringing a claim against the government. To bring a claim against Washington, D.C., you must give notice within 6 months after your injury. Further, under the Federal Tort Claims Act, claims against the federal government require notice within 2 years after your injury.
Failure to comply with the correct deadline almost always has a devastating effect on your case. Late filings are almost always dismissed in court, destroying your legal route to compensation. Therefore, bring your case to an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to avoid this unfortunate result. Marks & Harrison is a phone call away. Call one of our personal injury attorneys today.
Why Choose Marks & Harrison?
Finding the right legal team is essential if you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence. You need a dedicated personal injury law firm with a reputation for securing results, extensive resources, and a thorough understanding of D.C. laws and regulations.
Marks & Harrison has a longstanding history of success. Since our founding in 1911, we have recovered millions in compensation for accident victims across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. This century-long legacy highlights our deep-rooted commitment to justice for local personal injury victims.
Our legal team includes 30 experienced personal injury attorneys supported by over 100 staff members, including former law enforcement and insurance claims investigators. Our robust staff enables us to offer a comprehensive approach to all your legal needs. Our team also works tirelessly to prepare thoroughly for each case with the help of our three dedicated research attorneys.
We believe in making legal support accessible, regardless of financial status. Marks & Harrison provides free, confidential consultations and flexible meeting locations – at our convenient D.C. office on K Street, your home, or even the hospital. We charge no upfront fees and only get paid if we win your case, so there’s no financial risk to you as you seek justice.
Our Client Bill of Rights is our guarantee that we will treat you with respect, care, and compassion when you come to us for help. Thanks to our night and weekend staff and specialized intake department that promptly responds to all calls, we are available around the clock. Contact us today to start the journey toward the compensation you deserve.
Proud Partners of the Washington Commanders
Marks & Harrison is pleased to partner with the Washington Commanders, sharing in the spirit and excitement that the team brings to our community. The Washington Commanders have a storied history in the NFL, marked by numerous playoff appearances and three Super Bowl victories. Their success on the field has cultivated a passionate fan base and a proud legacy, and their strategic triumphs resonate with our commitment to fighting and winning for our clients.
To celebrate this partnership and support the team, we’re delighted to offer free tickets to future Commanders games. The team’s dynamic roster and strategic plays make each game an exciting event, promising thrilling moments for fans. Join us in rooting for the Commanders as they aim for victory on the field. Connect with us on Facebook to learn about our ticket giveaways and how you can enter to win.
Making The District a Better Place
At Marks & Harrison, we know the courtroom isn’t the only place we can make a difference. Our team is dedicated to serving our community and giving back to our neighbors here in Washington, D.C.
Our Practice Areas
At Marks & Harrison, we offer a wide range of legal services to address various personal injury claims, including Washington, D.C., cases involving the following:
- Car accidents – All types of motor vehicle accidents, from minor collisions to severe crashes
- Truck accidents – Accidents involving large commercial vehicles and the unique legal and safety regulations that govern them
- Motorcycle accidents – Wrecks involving motorcyclists who have been injured due to negligent drivers or hazardous road conditions
- Bicycle accidents – Traffic collisions with cyclists who have been hit by vehicles or injured due to poorly maintained roads or pathways
- Pedestrian accidents – Accidents involving individuals who have been struck or otherwise injured by vehicles while walking
- Rideshare accidents – Injuries from accidents with Uber and Lyft vehicles, which have complicated insurance structures
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist accidents – Accidents with drivers who either lack insurance or do not have enough insurance to cover your losses
- Boat accidents – Maritime accidents involving recreational boats or commercial vessels
- Wrongful death – Fatal injuries that occur due to others’ negligence or wrongdoing
- Premises liability – Injuries that have occurred on someone else’s property, such as slip and falls resulting from negligent maintenance
- Defective products – Injuries caused by malfunctioning or poorly designed consumer products
- Dog bites and other animal attacks – Injuries inflicted by animals, particularly dog bite injuries
- Dangerous products – Injuries resulting from the harmful effects of products like dangerous pharmaceuticals or cosmetic products
- Medical malpractice – Injuries due to medical negligence or errors by healthcare professionals
- Workers’ compensation – Occupational injuries that prevent employees from returning to work and entitle them to workers’ compensation benefits
- Nursing home neglect – Injuries due to neglect or abuse in nursing home settings
Our Washington DC Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
If you were injured in an accident at no fault of your own, you are likely entitled to legal compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Speak to an attorney today to make sure your right to compensation is not compromised. The legal team at Marks & Harrison is ready to evaluate and handle your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
How To Find our Washington DC Office
To find our office at 1003 K Street in Washington DC, start by heading towards the heart of the city, near the bustling
area of Mount Vernon Square. Our office is conveniently situated just a few blocks away from the iconic Walter E. Washington Convention Center,
making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
If you’re using public transportation, the closest Metro stations are Mt Vernon Sq/7th St-onvention Center on the Yellow and Green lines, and Metro Center, which serves the Blue, Orange, Silver, and Red lines, providing easy access from any direction.
For those driving, several parking options are available in the vicinity, including street parking and nearby parking garages. Look for the modern building with a sleek facade on K Street, between 10th and 11th Streets NW – our office is nestled among other professional establishments in this vibrant area, known for its mix of business, dining, and entertainment options.
We serve the entire Washington, D.C. metro area, including….Anacostia, NOMA, Deanwood, Capitol Hill, Truxton Circle, Eckington, Columbia Heights, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, the entire DC area, Virginia, and Maryland