{"id":372357,"date":"2017-06-07T15:14:56","date_gmt":"2017-06-07T20:14:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/dc-law\/your-washington-dc-car-accident-the-basics.html"},"modified":"2024-06-16T11:33:36","modified_gmt":"2024-06-16T16:33:36","slug":"your-washington-dc-car-accident-the-basics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/dc-law\/your-washington-dc-car-accident-the-basics.html","title":{"rendered":"What To Do After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C."},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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What To Do After a Car Accident in Washington, D.C.<\/h1>\n
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\n By Kit Yona, M.A.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

There’s nothing ordinary about driving in the District of Columbia. The Capitol City has restricted areas, frequent road closures, tourists everywhere, eye-catching monuments, and some of the best radio in the country. All this and more contribute to the likelihood of motorist confusion and distracted driving.<\/p>\r\n

D.C. drivers are no strangers to auto accidents. While you can do your best to avoid being in one, it’s a good idea to prepare in case it happens<\/a>. Knowing your legal obligations, when to involve the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)<\/a>, and how to deal with insurance claims<\/a> can make things much easier.<\/p>\r\n

This article will tell you all about what to do after a D.C. car accident.<\/p>\r\n

After the Accident: The First Steps<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Feeling another car impact against yours is a sickening feeling. While frustration and possibly rage are normal reactions, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. All D.C. drivers have certain responsibilities<\/a> after a motor vehicle accident.<\/p>\r\n

Don’t leave the accident scene, even if the contact seemed minor. Doing so exposes you to a hit-and-run charge, which carries fines and possible jail time<\/a>. Check to see if anyone involved needs medical attention. This includes you! Offer the degree of first aid you feel comfortable giving. Call 911 and make sure the operator knows the seriousness of any accident injuries.<\/p>\r\n

There are certain car crash conditions under which you must alert the MPD. These circumstances are:<\/p>\r\n