Claims Frequently Asked Questions

Are there time limitations for filing a claim against Caltrans?
There are time limitations for presenting your claim. Most claims have a six-month limit from the date of an incident; some have a one-year limit (see Government Code section 911.2).

How long will it take for my claim to be processed?
It is our practice, when possible, to complete an investigation within 90 days of acknowledging a claim.

I want to check on the status of a pending claim. Whom can I contact?
If you are seeking to obtain the status of a claim, please call (707) 445-6594.

What can I do if my claim has been denied?
You have six months from the date your claim has been rejected to file a small claims action in the court with appropriate jurisdiction.

What happens after I submit my claim?
The claim will be investigated. Forms that have not been completed or lack the required supporting documents may be returned, thereby delaying your claim. Once the investigation has concluded, we will contact you by mail regarding the outcome. When inquiring about a claim, please be sure to reference your assigned claim number.

What if my claim is for an incident that occurred in a district other than District 1?
You should file directly with the appropriate District Office.

What if my claim is over $5,000.00?
Government Code Section 935.7 authorizes the Department of Transportation to adjust and pay claims that are not in excess of $5,000.00 without prior presentation and approval of the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board. To file a claim that is over $5,000.00, please contact the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board.

THE FACT THAT THIS BRIEF STATEMENT OF THE PROCEDURE TO BE FOLLOWED IN ASSERTING A CLAIM AGAINST THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA HAS BEEN FURNISHED TO YOU OR THAT AN INVESTIGATION OF ANY CLAIM IS UNDERTAKEN IS NOT TO BE TAKEN AS AN ADMISSION OF LIABILITY IN ANY RESPECT ON THE PART OF THE STATE OR ANY OF ITS OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES; NOR IS THE FACT THAT THIS INFORMATIONAL STATEMENT HAS BEEN FURNISHED TO YOU TO BE CONSTRUED AS A WAIVER OF ANY REQUIREMENTS IMPOSED BY LAW OR OF ANY DEFENSE WHICH MAY BE AVAILABLE TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN CONNECTION WITH ANY CLAIM THAT MIGHT BE FILED AGAINST IT.