If you were injured at a VA hospital, post office, airport, or national park, you might assume there’s nothing you can do. After all, it’s the federal government—how do you sue them?

Here’s the good news: under a law called the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), you can hold the United States accountable when a federal employee’s negligence causes injury or death.

At National Security Law Firm, we represent individuals, veterans, and families who were harmed by the very institutions meant to serve them. Our attorneys—many of whom are former federal and military lawyers—know how to fight back when the system fails you.

If you’ve been injured by the federal government, our lawyers can help you understand your rights and start your claim today.

What Is the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA)?

The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) is a law that allows private citizens to seek compensation from the United States when they are injured or their property is damaged due to the negligent or wrongful acts of federal employees acting within the scope of their duties.

Before the FTCA was passed in 1946, the government was completely immune from lawsuits—a concept known as “sovereign immunity.” The FTCA changed that by letting people file administrative claims and, if necessary, sue the United States in federal court.

The FTCA applies to a wide range of federal agencies, including:

  • Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

  • U.S. Postal Service (USPS)

  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

  • National Park Service (NPS)

  • Department of Justice, Department of Defense, and other federal entities

If a federal employee—not a contractor—caused your injury while performing their official duties, you may be eligible for compensation under this law.

Common FTCA Case Examples

FTCA claims can arise from almost any kind of negligence by a federal employee or at a federal facility. Here are some real-world examples our clients have faced:

  • Medical malpractice at a VA hospital or federal medical center

  • Slip-and-fall injuries at a post office, courthouse, or federal building

  • Car accidents caused by government vehicles, such as mail trucks or federal agents

  • TSA negligence during airport screenings resulting in injury or humiliation

  • Unsafe conditions at national parks or monuments, like broken railings or falling debris

  • Assault or wrongful arrest by a federal law enforcement officer

Imagine visiting a national park when a broken railing gives way—or being injured by a VA nurse who makes a careless medical error. These are exactly the kinds of cases Congress intended the FTCA to cover.

How the FTCA Process Works

Suing the federal government isn’t like suing a private company or individual. The process is specific, structured, and time-sensitive. Here’s how it works:

  1. Injury Occurs — You are injured by a federal employee acting within the scope of their job, or while on federal property.

  2. File an Administrative Claim (SF-95) — You must submit a Standard Form 95 to the agency responsible, describing what happened and stating the exact dollar amount you are claiming in damages.

  3. Agency Review — The agency has six months to investigate and respond. It may offer a settlement or deny your claim.

  4. Filing in Federal Court — If your claim is denied or ignored for six months, you can then file a lawsuit against the United States in federal district court.

👉 Download the SF-95 Form

Throughout this process, the attorneys at National Security Law Firm handle everything—from gathering evidence and identifying the correct agency, to drafting your SF-95 and litigating if necessary.

FTCA Deadlines, Damages, and Legal Limits

The FTCA has strict deadlines and limits that must be followed exactly:

  • You have 2 years from the date of injury to file your administrative claim (SF-95).

  • Once the agency denies your claim, you have 6 months to file a federal lawsuit.

  • You can recover compensatory damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering), but not punitive damages.

  • There is no jury trial—cases are heard by a federal judge.

  • Attorney fees are capped at 20% for settlements and 25% for court judgments, by law.

Missing a single deadline can destroy your claim. That’s why it’s critical to have experienced Federal Tort Claims Act lawyers guiding you from the start.

Why Choose National Security Law Firm

When you take on the federal government, you need lawyers who have been on the inside—and know exactly how to fight back.

At National Security Law Firm, our team includes former military officers, federal prosecutors, and government attorneys who understand the bureaucracy, procedures, and strategies of federal agencies.

We offer:

  • 4.9-star Google Reviews from satisfied clients

  • Nationwide representation from our Washington, D.C. headquarters

  • Transparent pricing and legal financing through Pay Later by Affirm

  • A team with firsthand experience inside the agencies we now hold accountable

  • Free, no-pressure consultations

You’ve been hurt by the system. We know how to hold it accountable.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.

Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.

If you were injured on federal property or by a federal employee, don’t wait—the clock is ticking.

Our attorneys will review your situation for free, determine whether your claim qualifies under the FTCA, and develop a battle-tested strategy to pursue justice.

📞 Call 202-600-4996 or book your consultation online.

Learn More About FTCA Claims

For in-depth guides, filing tips, and real-world case examples, visit our FTCA Resource Center to explore topics like:

  • What Is the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA)?

  • How to File an SF-95

  • Common FTCA Mistakes

  • What Happens After an FTCA Denial

If you’ve been injured by the government, don’t navigate it alone. Let our attorneys help you file, fight, and win.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.