Filing a Damage Claim Against Caltrans

If you feel that you have lost money or property as a result of any action or inaction by Caltrans and your claim is for $5,000 or less, you can file your claim directly with Caltrans. No fee is required for Caltrans claims under $5,000.

If your claim is for over $5,000, you must file a claim with the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board. This program gives you the opportunity to formally demand compensation for your loss, and may lead to a settlement of your claim without the need to file a lawsuit. For more information about the Government Claims Program or to request a claim form, write to: California Board of Control, Government Claims Division, P.O. Box 3035, Sacramento, California 95812-3035. You may also call the Government Claims Program toll-free at 1-800-955-0045.

To present a claim for $5,000 or less, please fill out Form LD0274, Claim against Department of Transportation for Amounts $5,000.00 and Less and present it to the appropriate District Claims Office.  This form is in Adobe PDF format and the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print the form can be downloaded and installed by clicking here. To determine the proper place to file your form, you must know the county in which your incident occurred.  Each county is covered by a specific District Claims Office.  The accompanying map shows which District Claims Office covers which county.  Clicking on the map will provide you with the address and telephone number of the corresponding District Claims Office.  

 

Please click here to see frequently asked questions about filing claims for $5,000 or less.

DISTRICT CLAIMS OFFICE ADDRESSES - Click on the county where your incident occurred.