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Washington, DC Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident in Washington, DC, can cause more than injuries. You could be facing mounting bills and mental fallout. You may not know where to turn or who to talk to after such a stressful situation. You will need the help of a DC car accident lawyer who can walk you through the process and make sure you receive the right compensation for your injuries.

At Regan Zambri Long, we’ve spent nearly three decades helping DC area car accident victims get their lives back on track. Our attorneys have secured over $1 billion in compensation for car accident victims, including multiple multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts. But more importantly, we understand that behind every case is a person whose world has been turned upside down. We handle everything—from dealing with insurance companies to gathering evidence you can’t access on your own—so you can focus on healing.
If you were injured in a car accident in DC, don’t wait another minute. Contact Regan Zambri Long today to speak with one of our experienced Washington, DC auto accident attorneys. The consultation is free, and you won’t pay us a penny unless we win your case.

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Why Hire a Washington, DC Car Accident Attorney

When you hire our car accident lawyers, you can rest assured that your case will be handled by a legal team who has years of experience in complex car accident claims. We immediately start the investigation by gathering evidence you cannot get on your own. We send demand letters to the insurance provider on your behalf and begin negotiating a settlement that will cover your medical bills, lost wages, car damage, and pain and suffering.

$77

MILLION

Wrongful Death Settlement

$20

MILLION

Brain Injury
Verdict

$19.5

MILLION

Wrongful Death Verdict

$16

MILLION

Premises Liability Settlement

$15.2

MILLION

Wrongful Death Settlement

$15.2​

MILLION

Wrongful Death Verdict

$15

MILLION

Medical Malpractice Settlement

$14

MILLION

Personal Injury Settlement

$14

MILLION

Car Accident Settlement

See Many More
Rarely, an insurance company may be willing to give a fair amount to settle for your injuries, but more often than not, they are only interested in one thing: the bottom line. That’s why you need a DC auto accident lawyer fighting on your behalf and reminding your insurance carrier that it is still responsible for all the costs associated with your injury. We will begin negotiations to get you the maximum amount of compensation.
Sometimes, the insurance provider will not negotiate and refuse to pay the amount your claim is worth. If this is the case, our auto accident lawyers are not afraid to go to court to get you the compensation you deserve. With decades of experience in the courtroom, our trial attorneys will fight on your behalf of accident victims to ensure you are properly compensated.

How Much Does a DC Auto Accident Attorney Cost?

At Regan Zambri Long, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only owe us money if we win your case. If we take your case, you will not be billed hourly fees or upfront costs. Our fee is typically a percentage of the total compensation we recover.

If you were involved in a car accident anywhere in DC, we’re here to help. Contact an experienced DC car wreck lawyer at Regan Zambri Long today for a free legal consultation.
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dc car accident lawyer Christopher Regan

Compensation in Car Accident Cases in DC

You can pursue two types of damages in a DC car accident lawsuit: economic and non-economic. Economic damages are quantifiable expenses directly linked to the wreck, such as past and future medical bills, lost income, property damage, and funeral expenses, if necessary.
Non-economic damages are contingent upon the severity of your injuries. These may involve pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, loss of companionship, and loss of enjoyment in life.
In rare instances, punitive damages may be applicable. These damages serve to penalize the at-fault party for their negligent behavior.

How Much Is My Auto Accident Case Worth?

Determining how much your DC car accident claim is worth depends on several things. The seriousness of your injuries, who was at fault, the damage to your car, lost income from missing work, and non-physical losses like pain and suffering all help decide the value of your claim.
Washington, DC, is one of only a handful of jurisdictions that follow the contributory negligence doctrine. This states that if you are found to be at fault for the accident, even if it’s 1 percent, you will not be able to collect damages.
Contact Regan Zambri Long today for a free consultation on your car accident case.
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The Statute of Limitations for Auto Accidents in Washington, DC

Washington, DC’s statute of limitations defines the period you need to file your lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you probably won’t be able to get any compensation.
For auto accident claims in DC, you have up to three years from the accident date to file a legal claim to recover damages. For wrongful death claims, the family has up to two years to file this type of accident claim with the local court.

Common Causes of DC Car Crashes

Some car accidents cannot be avoided. For example, if a person darts out in front of a car at the intersection of New York Avenue and Florida Avenue NE, and the driver swerves, the driver may hit another vehicle. If the weather suddenly changes while someone is already out on the road, poor visibility or slippery roads may cause a car crash. However, in many car accident cases in DC, a driver’s negligence is the leading cause of the crash.
According to recent statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, there were 52 fatal car crashes in Washington, DC, in 2023. This is the highest number of fatal car accidents the DC region has seen in the past five years. What’s worse, the latest totals from 2024 show the same number of fatalities in the District.

According to recent statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, there were 52 fatal car crashes in Washington, DC, in 2023. This is the highest number of fatal car accidents the DC region has seen in the past five years. What’s worse, the latest totals from 2024 show the same number of fatalities in the District.

According to the latest annual report by the Metropolitan Police Department, many of the factors that cause fatal accidents in the DC area include:
  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Reckless driving
  • Aggressive driving
  • Defective roadways
  • Vehicle defects
  • Objects falling from other vehicles

Common Car Crash Injuries
in Washington, DC

Motor vehicle accidents can inflict a wide range of physical and psychological injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. These injuries can profoundly impact a victim’s life, affecting their physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. The most common types of car accident injuries include:

Contact Our DC Car Accident Attorneys Today

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Sal Zambri, a leading car accident lawyer at Regan Zambri Long PLLC, is seen reviewing a client’s file in his Washington, DC office. Known for his strategic case preparation and deep understanding of personal injury law, Sal represents clients injured in auto collisions across the DC area. With decades of experience, he provides focused legal counsel to individuals seeking justice and compensation for serious injuries. For consultations on traffic accident claims and settlements, contact his office at (202) 937-3310.

The Types of Car Wrecks in Washington, DC

Many people may not realize how many different types of accidents can occur, each with the potential to inflict severe and long-lasting injuries. Our team of car wreck lawyers in DC have years of experience handling all types of car accident claims, including:
  • Head-On Collisions: Head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. They are frequently caused by distracted driving, speeding, or a drunk driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Hit-and-Run Collisions: Hit-and-run accidents occur when one vehicle strikes another and then flees the scene without identifying themselves or providing assistance. These accidents can be particularly challenging to investigate and prosecute, as the identity of the at-fault driver may be unknown, and you will need to rely on your uninsured motorist coverage to pay your bills.
  • Rear-End Accidents: Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident, accounting for approximately 30% of all accidents. They occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle.
  • Rollover Car Accidents: Rollover auto accidents occur when a vehicle overturns and rolls onto its side or roof. These accidents can be hazardous, as they can result in ejection from the vehicle and serious injuries, including head trauma and spinal cord injuries.
  • T-Bone Collisions: T-bone collisions occur when a vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle, forming a T-shape. These accidents are often caused by running a red light or stop sign, failing to yield the right of way, or speeding.
  • Tailgating Car Crashes: Tailgating occurs when a vehicle follows too closely behind another vehicle, resulting in a rear-end collision. Tailgating is often caused by distracted driving, aggressive driving, or following too closely.
Other types of car accidents our firm handles include:
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Washington, DC Auto Accident Insurance Laws

Washington, DC, follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that after a motor vehicle accident, your car insurance will initially cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage regardless of who is at fault for the crash.
However, there are some exceptions. According to DC law, insurance companies are required to offer optional Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which will allow you to sue the at-fault driver if the following conditions are met:
  • The medical expenses exceed the limits of your PIP coverage or
  • The victim suffers catastrophic injuries such as permanent scarring or disfigurement, a permanent impairment, or a total impairment that lasts over 180 consecutive days.
At Regan Zambri Long, an experienced DC personal injury lawyer will protect your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with your insurance provider, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Contact Regan Zambri Long today for a free initial consultation, and let our team of dedicated car accident lawyers handle your case.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in DC

The initial shock and adrenaline rush at the accident scene can make it difficult for car injury victims to think clearly. However, taking the proper steps after a car accident in DC can significantly impact physical and legal well-being.

  • Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you think you have minor injuries, seeking medical attention from a medical professional is essential. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not manifest immediately but can develop over time.
  • Exchange Information and Document the Scene: Take pictures of vehicle damage, and if there are witnesses, obtain their contact information.
  • Report the Accident: A police report provides evidence in any insurance or legal claims.
  • Contact Your Insurance Company: Tell them about the accident promptly. They will guide you through the claims process and provide coverage as per your policy.
  • Consult a Top Car Accident Attorney at Regan Zambri Long: Our experienced auto accident attorneys can protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation for your damages.

Dealing with the Insurance Company After a Car Crash

After a car accident in Washington, DC, the main job of an insurance provider is to look at the situation, figure out who is at fault, and settle claims according to the insurance terms. Here’s an overview of the tasks it performs:

  • Investigation: An insurance adjuster is assigned to the investigation. They will analyze accident reports, examine vehicle damage, and obtain statements from those involved.
  • Evaluation of Medical Expenses: If injuries have been reported, the adjuster will examine medical records, bills, and related costs. They could also request a separate medical test to determine the severity of the injuries.
  • Determining Who Was at Fault: The insurance company will decide who was at fault based on the information it has collected, which will affect the amount of compensation paid out.
  • Settlement Talks: The adjuster will then suggest an amount for a deal. Insurance companies may offer the injured party less money to protect their bottom line than they earn. A good car accident lawyer can talk to the adjuster, protect the victim’s rights, and seek a fair settlement.
  • Deal Reached: The insurance company will pay once a deal is reached. If no agreement can be made, the case could go to court, where having a car accident lawyer is very important.

Remember that insurance companies are run like businesses. Their main goal is to pay as little monetary compensation as possible and protect their interests. As the injured party, by hiring a DC car accident attorney, you can be sure that someone will fight for your rights, help you understand how insurance claims work, and, if necessary, pursue the at-fault driver’s insurance company and try to get you the best possible result for your case.

Should I Settle My Car Accident Claim?

When deciding how to settle a car accident claim, consider it carefully. To settle, you must talk with the insurance provider and agree on how much money you will get for your losses and injuries. Lawyers who work for insurance companies seek their best interests. A personal injury lawyer on your side will protect your rights while the deal is being worked out.

In the end, settling your car wreck claim can help you get it over with faster, but it’s important to ensure that the settlement covers your losses. An auto accident lawyer in Washington, DC, can help you understand the process, negotiate on your behalf, and make sure you know what to do at every step.

A dark-colored sedan and a white SUV are shown in a head-on collision, both with severe front-end damage. The scene suggests a wrong-way driver crash, which often leads to catastrophic injuries due to the angle and force of impact. These types of accidents frequently occur on divided roads or urban streets and raise complex liability questions. Victims of wrong-way driver car accidents in Washington, DC can call Regan Zambri Long PLLC at (202) 937-3310 for legal support and injury compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents

Choosing Regan Zambri Long as Your Car Accident Lawyers in Washington, DC

When you hire an experienced car accident attorney at Regan Zambri Long, you hire someone to be your advocate. With almost 30 years of experience in car accident litigation in Washington, DC, we have achieved multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients.

Our board certified lawyers have been recognized by our peers and prestigious legal organizations for our achievements. We are prepared to take your case to court, if necessary, to get you the compensation you deserve.

Remember, you have only three years to file a lawsuit in the District of Columbia, so time is of the essence. We do not charge a fee unless your case is settled.

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Have you or your loved one sustained injuries in Washington DC, Maryland or Virginia? Regan Zambri Long PLLC has the best lawyers in the country to analyze your case and answer the questions you may have.

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