Filing a claim against Caltrans after an accident requires following a specific process that differs from standard personal injury claims and must be completed correctly to preserve the right to seek compensation. Understanding where to start and how to submit the proper forms to file a claim against Caltrans helps accident victims avoid delays and procedural issues when pursuing a claim.

1. Go to the official Caltrans Damage Claims webpage on the California Department of Transportation website. This page is where the state provides information, instructions, and links for filing a damage claim when harm has been caused by Caltrans operations, roadway conditions, or a Caltrans vehicle. Make sure you read through the information carefully.
2. If your claim is for $12,500 or less and involves death, personal injury, personal property damage, or damage to growing crops, then you will need to find the section labelled “Claims for $12,500 or less”. This section will have the Caltrans damage claim form that is appropriate for claims that are equivalent to $12,500 or less.
   • In this section, you will need to find and download Form DOTLD-0274, titled Claim Against Department of Transportation for Amounts $12,500 or Less (PDF). This is the official form Caltrans requires that accident victims fill out for these types of claims that do not exceed $12,500.
     • Fill out the DOTLD-0274 form completely and accurately to the best of your ability. Include:
       • Your name and contact information
       • The date and location of the accident
       • A description of what happened
       • The amount you are claiming for injuries and damages
     • You will also need to attach any supporting evidence you have, such as:
       • Photographs of the scene
       • Repair estimates
       • Medical records
       • Written statements
       • Police reports
       • Other types of documentation showing how the incident occurred and the extent of your damages
     • Sign the completed form where required.
   • On the same Caltrans page, you will find a list of Caltrans District Claims Offices along with their mailing addresses and phone numbers in case you wish to file in person or call to ask questions.
   • Once signed and completely filled out, send your completed form and all supporting documents by certified mail to the District Claims Office that serves the county where your accident occurred.
3. If your claim is for more than $12,500 or if it involves a department or agency of the State of California other than Caltrans, then you must file your claim through the Government Claims Program.
   • On the Caltrans damage claims page, locate the section labelled “Claims for over $12,500”, and read through the information about claims over $12,500. This section will explain that larger claims go through the state Government Claims Program rather than directly to Caltrans, which is important to note.
   • If you wish to file a claim worth more than $12,500 against Caltrans in person, you can find the office locations listed on the Caltrans page for where you can submit your documents.
   • If you wish to file online, you will scroll to the bottom of the section for larger claims and click on the link provided that takes you to the Government Claims Program page.
4. On the Government Claims Program page, make sure to read through all information and instructions carefully about filing a claim with the state for claim amounts over $12,500.
   • After you have reviewed the Government Claims Program information, find and click on the blue box labeled “Government Claim Form.”
   • Complete the Government Claim Form provided. Fill in all details requested, attach supporting documentation, and follow the directions as described on that form for submission.
   • You can email or print the claim out and file it in person at the Government Claims office in the district where the accident occurred
5. After submitting either the Caltrans DOTLD-0274 form or the Government Claim Program form with all attachments, you will then wait for an official response. Caltrans or the Government Claims Program will review your submitted claim and then notify you whether it is:
   • Accepted
   • Partially accepted
   • Granted a settlement
   • Denied

If you have questions about filing a Caltrans claim or need help pursuing compensation for injuries or damage involving Caltrans after a denied claim, speaking with a Caltrans lawyer can make the process far less overwhelming. A Caltrans lawyer from our team at Gold Firm can assist with preparing and filing your claim, as well as pursuing a lawsuit if a claim is denied to protect your right to financial recovery.