What to Do After an Injury on Government Property in Washington, DC

Suffering an injury is stressful under any circumstances, but when it happens on government property in Washington, DC, the situation becomes even more complex. Whether you were hurt at a federal building, a Metro station, a public park, or another government-maintained space, special rules and strict deadlines apply — and they can dramatically affect your ability to recover compensation.

At Roeser Law Firm, we help injured individuals navigate these unique legal challenges. Understanding how claims against government agencies work is essential to protecting your rights and preserving your ability to seek damages for your injuries.

Where Government Property Injuries Commonly Occur in DC

Washington, DC is home to countless federal, state, and municipal facilities. With so much foot traffic from residents, employees, and tourists, accidents can occur almost anywhere. Some of the most common locations include:

• Metro Stations and Transit Areas – Crowded platforms, malfunctioning escalators, wet floors, and structural defects can all lead to serious injuries. WMATA properties have specific claim procedures that must be followed.
• Federal Buildings and Offices – Slip-and-falls in lobbies, unsafe staircases, poor lighting, or neglected maintenance can cause harm to employees and visitors.
• Public Parks and Recreation Areas – Uneven walkways, broken pavement, fallen tree limbs, and poorly maintained grounds can create hazards in places like Rock Creek Park, the National Mall, and community recreation centers.
• Public Parks and Recreation Areas – Uneven walkways, broken pavement, fallen tree limbs, and poorly maintained grounds can create hazards in places like Rock Creek Park, the National Mall, and community recreation centers.
• Schools, Libraries, and Municipal Facilities – Children and adults alike can be injured by unsafe playgrounds, damaged floors, or other hazardous conditions.

How Government Liability Is Different From Private Property Liability

Unlike private property owners, government entities are protected by a legal principle known as sovereign immunity. This means the government cannot be sued unless it has specifically agreed to allow certain types of claims.

For injuries, government liability is governed by laws such as:

• The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) for federal government negligence
• The DC Code § 12-309 notice requirement for claims against the District of Columbia
• Specific procedures for agencies like WMATA, which has its own claims system

These laws outline when the government can be held responsible — and when it cannot.

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Strict Deadlines Apply — Sometimes Only 6 Months

One of the biggest challenges in a government injury case is the short timeframe to notify the government. Failing to meet these deadlines can bar your claim completely.

• For Injuries Caused by the District of Columbia: You must provide written notice within six months of the injury, as required by DC Code § 12-309.
• For Injuries on Federal Property: You generally must file an administrative claim within two years under the FTCA.
• For Injuries on WMATA Property: WMATA requires its own administrative claim, typically within one year.

These deadlines come before you can even file a lawsuit, which is why contacting an attorney early is so important.

Examples of Negligence on Government Property

While every case is unique, common government negligence includes:

• Failure to repair broken or uneven sidewalks
• Neglected snow and ice removal
• Poor lighting in stairwells, parking garages, and transit areas
• Damaged flooring, loose tiles, or worn carpeting
• Lack of warnings about known hazards
• Malfunctioning escalators or elevators
• Unsafe conditions in parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers

When these hazards cause injuries, the responsible government entity may be liable — but only if strict legal requirements are met.

What to Do If You’re Injured on Government Property in DC

Taking the right steps can make or break your claim. If you’re injured, be sure to:

1. Report the Incident Immediately – Notify security personnel, building management, or the appropriate agency.
2. Seek Medical Care Promptly – Medical documentation is essential to proving your injuries.
3. Take Photos or Videos of the Hazard – Government properties often clean up or repair dangerous conditions quickly, so document the scene as soon as possible.
4. Collect Witness Information – Statements from bystanders can help establish what happened.
5. Avoid Speaking with Government Claims Adjusters – They may try to minimize or deny your claim early.
6. Contact a Premises Liability Attorney – Government claims require precision. An attorney can ensure your notice is timely, complete, and properly submitted.

Advocates for Government Property Injury Victims

A premises liability injury can leave you dealing with medical treatment, missed time from work, and uncertainty about what to do next. You don’t have to handle the aftermath on your own. If a property owner’s negligence caused your accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation.

The Roeser Law Firm is here to help you move forward. Call (202) 660-4070 for a free consultation. We’ll review the details of your situation, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. You can also reach us online at any time. There are no fees unless we win your case—contact us today to get the guidance you need.