D.C. Contributory Negligence, Last Clear Chance & Vulnerable-User Comparative-Fault Exception

The District of Columbia generally retains contributory negligence, which can bar recovery when a claimant’s negligence contributes to the injury, subject to doctrines such as last clear chance and statutory exceptions for pedestrians and other defined vulnerable road users. This guide will distinguish the general bar from the modified-comparative-fault exception applicable to qualifying vulnerable users.