What Are The Safety And Injury Concerns During A Government Shutdown?

TL;DR: A government shutdown can raise your risk of injury because safety inspections, emergency response, and workplace oversight slow down. Reduced staffing may delay claims and medical care, but injured individuals still have the right to seek compensation under California law.

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On October 1, 2025, the U.S. government shut down because Congress didn’t pass any bills to keep it running. Lawmakers failed to agree on the spending bills that fund federal agencies for the whole year, and also didn’t pass a temporary funding bill to keep money flowing for a few more weeks. Without either one, federal funding ran out, and most government offices had to stop or slow their work until a new budget is approved.

This lapse in funding doesn’t just affect government workers. It can also impact anyone waiting on safety inspections, medical benefits, or legal claims. When key agencies close or operate with fewer staff, processes that protect the public or support individuals with injuries can slow down or temporarily cease operation.

Here’s what may happen during a shutdown:

• Operational Delays — Furloughs reduce agency staff, slowing inspections, reviews, and safety reports that help prevent injuries. If you’re already injured, these delays can also affect the paperwork needed for claims or benefits.
• Limited Services — Some offices remain open, but with reduced staff. It may result in delays in benefits and approvals. These slowdowns can be frustrating when you’re trying to get medical care or understand your legal rights.
• Benefits & Pay Interruption — Many federal employees are furloughed, while others continue working without pay. Missed paychecks and delayed benefits put financial stress on families.

Practically, staff shortages in key roles can slow public operations. For example:

• National parks may curtail visitor services.
• Airports may experience staffing gaps.
• Courts may process civil cases more slowly.

Each of these can create real-world safety concerns and potentially lead to delays in claims.

If you sustained injuries during a shutdown, the choices you make in the first few days still matter: seek medical care, document what happened, and consider consulting with a lawyer to understand deadlines and help preserve your rights. You can reach injury attorneys at AK Law at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our contact form for a free initial consultation.

How The Government Shutdown Raises Safety Concerns

Public safety can be at risk during a government shutdown. Law enforcement officers continue to work, but they may have limited support. Some services that help keep communities safe may also become limited or unavailable. Here are some possible implications for the following areas:

Public Health And Environmental Safety

Federal agencies that oversee health, food safety, and the environment play a key role in preventing injuries and health risks before they occur. During a shutdown, many of their routine activities pause or slow down, allowing hazards to go undetected or unaddressed for longer than usual.

U.S. Department Of Health And Human Services (HHS)

HHS projected in late 2025 that 41% of its employees would be subject to furlough. This reduction could lead to payment and administrative delays that indirectly affect injured patients:

• Care Access & Scheduling — Medicare and Medicaid coverage typically remains active during a shutdown; however, slower provider payments can delay follow-up appointments, imaging, or surgeries. These setbacks may worsen injuries or extend recovery time.
• Claims Processing — Reduced staffing often slows reimbursement and settlement processing. This delay can impact individuals who are injured and rely on timely payments for financial stability during their treatment.

Personal injury lawyers can connect clients with doctors who accept medical liens, ensuring treatment continues even while payment is pending. They can also communicate with insurers to expedite coverage approvals and explore alternatives, such as workers’ compensation programs.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA enforces national standards for air, water, and land quality. During a shutdown, reduced operations can affect its ability to monitor and respond to environmental hazards, which may lead to:

• Industrial Accidents — Fewer inspections can increase the risk of chemical leaks, explosions, or equipment failures that may cause burns, respiratory injuries, or toxic exposure.
• Delayed Action — The slower cleanup of spills or leaks can lead to prolonged exposure to hazardous materials, increasing the risk of acute or chronic health conditions.
• Reduced Water Quality — Without routine monitoring, local drinking water systems face a greater risk of contamination, which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, chemical exposure injuries, or dermatologic reactions.

Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC)

The CDC is still focused on its mission-critical activities. Research, data tracking, and public health programs might slow or stop completely. These interruptions may lead to the following risks:

• Reduced Workplace Safety Oversight — The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) may issue fewer updates or guidelines, leaving workers in hazardous environments more susceptible to risks.
• Compromised Injury Prevention Programs — Programs addressing violence prevention, fall prevention in older adults, sports concussions, and drowning risks may pause, increasing the likelihood of incidents.

Food And Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA continues some import inspections but may reduce domestic food checks, allowing unsafe products to remain on shelves for longer periods.

The USDA may also face funding constraints for programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the National School Lunch Program. Disruptions can limit access to proper nutrition, especially for families relying on these services, thereby restricting access to nutrition for these families. For those recovering from injuries, foodborne illness, or delayed medication access can make healing more difficult.

Safety And Security Concerns In Public Areas

The federal government manages certain public safety operations, and reduced staffing during a shutdown can affect community safety nationwide. Reduced emergency response and supervision in public places can increase the risk to pedestrians. For those affected, consulting with pedestrian accident lawyers can provide valuable guidance on the next steps to take when seeking compensation.

Emergency Response Disruptions

Police, fire, EMS, TSA, and air traffic control personnel continue to work, but with unpaid status and staff shortages, their response times can be weakened. Even short delays can worsen outcomes for accident victims.

Limited Visitor Services In Parks

During the 2025 shutdown, the National Park Service maintained minimal staffing for essential life-and-safety needs. Reduced patrols and maintenance increase risks such as:

• Accumulated trash and human waste can create tripping hazards, attract pests, and increase the risk of infection. (Source: Association of National Park Rangers)
• Closed facilities and reduced patrols make it harder for injured visitors to receive help quickly, increasing the likelihood of untreated injuries or delayed rescue. (Source: NPS)

This delay can lead to unclear liability and make it harder to file a personal injury or premises liability claim. Parks may still be open to the public, but using them “at your own risk” becomes a greater reality, especially when the usual oversight and maintenance are not in full force.

Wildfire Prevention Pauses

The U.S. Forest Service may pause prevention programs across 193 million acres in 46 states. Firefighting efforts continue, but limited prevention work can heighten the risk of wildfires, which can cause burn injuries and property damage.

Transportation Delays & Gaps

Transportation safety depends on consistent funding. During a shutdown, reduced staffing and suspended programs can disrupt key sectors of travel and infrastructure, including:

• Airports — According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data from October 2025, major flight delays were attributed to controller shortages and unpaid TSA staff. Fewer controllers can increase workload and stress among those still on duty, which may raise the risk of human error and flight safety issues.

  Meanwhile, longer security lines and slower screening can lead to congestion, crowd-related injuries, and heightened traveler frustration.

  In addition, the president of the Association of Flight Attendants states that, “Right now we’re concerned that we don’t have people doing the weather service, we can have very serious turbulence injuries at work.” This highlights how staff shortages extend beyond airports, affecting flight crews’ ability to anticipate turbulence and maintain in-flight safety.

• Roadway Work Zones — According to the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), projects funded by the Highway Trust Fund may continue. However, prolonged shutdowns may halt other projects. Unfinished roadwork and poor maintenance conditions heighten the risk of roadway hazards and highway construction accidents.

  When lanes narrow or traffic backs up near work zones, large commercial vehicles face greater challenges in stopping or maneuvering safely. Staff shortages and traffic slowdowns can therefore increase the risk of truck-related crashes. Understanding why big-rig trucks are prone to rear-end collisions can help all drivers stay alert in these disrupted conditions.

  These delays can also lead to increased crashes and vehicle damage, leaving drivers with concerns about repair and insurance costs. For example, you may be wondering how long a body shop can hold your car for repair in California if it sustained damage in a highway accident. Car accident lawyers can investigate to determine who may be liable for the victims’ losses.

During the 2019 shutdown, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) failed to investigate some fatal crashes. The agency is able to resume investigations once the shutdown ends, but by then, key evidence may have faded, and witness recollections may no longer be reliable.

This setback also impacts efforts to develop methods for preventing such incidents in the future. The situation poses risks to the public if agencies do not update their safety measures. Similar traffic accidents, charter plane crashes, and other incidents could occur again.

Workplace Safety And Wage Concerns

The shutdown affects federal employees. Still, private companies and their employees could also feel the impact. How can this happen? Here are some scenarios:

• Delayed Workplace Safety Investigations — Agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) scale back enforcement during a shutdown. This means:
  • Fewer routine safety inspections.
  • Limited compliance support and training.
  • Delayed reporting and slower investigations.
  • Paused regulatory and administrative activities.

  If workplace accidents occur, these delays can make it more difficult for injured workers to receive timely assistance or process their injury claims. Some might consider consulting with work injury lawyers. They can help explain how delays might impact benefits or compensation.

• Wage Delays & Temporary Jobs — Furloughed employees often seek temporary or gig work, such as rideshare driving or delivery services. Inexperience in these jobs can raise accident risks for workers and the public.

  For instance, inexperienced drivers can raise the risks of rideshare accidents, food delivery incidents, and other mishaps.

Other Impacts Of Government Shutdown

The government shutdown may also impact other non-critical government operations. Here are some other possible implications:

• Court Delays — Federal courts operated on reserve funds through October 17, 2025, before shifting to limited functions. Fewer staff can result in slower case processing and delayed hearings, which can impact ongoing injury claims.

  During these disruptions, personal injury lawyers can help injured individuals navigate court delays and track pending filings. They can also explore temporary options to help clients maintain access to needed benefits.

• Possible Civil Unrest — Reports indicated that the Pentagon asked the National Guard to prepare for potential unrest. Such events may cause injuries from falls, strikes, or exposure to smoke and chemicals. Potential injuries in such settings:
  • Cuts and bruises from falls or thrown objects.
  • Bone fractures from direct strikes or trampling.
  • Head injuries from direct strikes may lead to brain injuries.
  • Smoke inhalation from exposure to fire, tear gas, or burning materials.
  • Eye injuries from pepper spray, tear gas, or heavy smoke.
  • Burns from explosions, fires, or touching hot objects.
  • Sprains and strains from running, falling, or moving in a crowded area.

If a third party caused issues such as poor crowd control or blocked exits, you may have a claim. Take photos or videos and seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss liability options against organizers, property owners, or security vendors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Options During Government Shutdown

Many people ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to handle my case after an accident during a government shutdown?” The answer usually depends on the specifics of each case. It is a good idea to consult an injury lawyer when you are unsure about your options. You may also visit our FAQ page for additional information.

Our lawyers focusing on personal injury claims have addressed some of the common legal questions that arise during a government shutdown.

Will The Government Shutdown Increase Your Personal Injury Risk?

We can’t be certain whether personal injury risk will increase due to various factors. That said, we can outline possible scenarios and what they mean for injury risks:

• Suspension of Safety Inspections — Some federal agencies may suspend some safety inspections. The FDA will continue to inspect imported foods, but it may fail to inspect domestic ones. In charge of workplace safety, OSHA may also suspend some routine operations. The shutdown also impacts the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Activities related to immediate threats will continue, such as recalls and safety warnings. However, tasks such as consumer education, rulemaking, and civil penalties may face delays. These preventive measures may help prevent product liability issues.
• Delays in Emergency Response — Essential employees include emergency responders. Yet, a government shutdown can still lead to staff shortages in certain areas. These shortages may delay emergency assistance. Accident victims might not receive help in a timely manner.
• Agencies May Suspend Construction Work — Some projects can continue during a shutdown. However, prolonged funding gaps may cause the suspension of other programs. Dangerous road conditions could lead to accidents.
• Law Enforcement May Be Short-Staffed — Law enforcement officers are vital. However, a shutdown can result in fewer staff members in some areas. Fewer officers on duty can lead to an increase in traffic law violations. There could be risks of speeding-related accidents, DUI collisions, and hit-and-run crashes.

Apart from these safety concerns, civil unrest may occur. Riots, vandalism, and other public disturbances can occur. In these situations, there may be violence or accidents that could injure some people. Attorneys who handle personal injury cases often recommend that victims gather crucial evidence. Proper documentation can support claims throughout the process.

Do Court Deadlines Still Apply?

Yes, court deadlines generally still apply. The U.S. Courts announced they will keep operating with current funds until October 17, 2025. Most court sessions and filings will proceed as scheduled.

Still, furloughed Department of Justice attorneys may not be able to work on civil cases. This issue might make it harder to meet deadlines or reschedule hearings. It depends on the availability of government attorneys. Judges continue to run their courts. They don’t usually extend deadlines because of a shutdown unless there’s a strong reason. If you have a pending claim, the process can be confusing and stressful.

You may be looking for free accident lawyer advice to understand how the shutdown might affect your case and what steps you should take next. An experienced injury attorney can review your situation, explain your options, and help ensure you meet all required deadlines despite the delays.

If your claim faces unusual hold-ups during a shutdown, it’s worth understanding why it might take longer to settle your case even in normal circumstances.

How Long Do You Have To File A Government Claim In California?

In California, you must follow the deadlines set by the state’s statute of limitations. Missing these deadlines can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. To file a government tort claim, you have six months from the date of the injury. Only after submitting this claim can you bring a lawsuit against the government.

After you submit a claim, the government has 45 days to accept or deny it. If they agree to pay, no further action is necessary. If they reject your claim, you have another six months to file for civil action. Should they fail to respond within 45 days, you have two years to file a lawsuit.

It’s important to know your options when filing such claims. Consider consulting a personal injury lawyer before taking any action. They can guide you through your options based on the specifics of your case.

Can You Sue The Federal Government For Personal Injury?

Suing the government is a nuanced process that depends on the specific circumstances. It is more challenging to sue a government agency than it is to sue a private individual. Sovereign immunity typically protects public entities in certain cases. Even so, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) allows victims to seek compensation if the government is responsible for their injuries.

Government agencies may be responsible for certain accidents. These instances may include, but are not limited to:

• Hazardous roads
• Public transit issues
• Police misconduct
• Injuries on public properties

No government employee or contractor may create risks that pose a threat to the public. Laws exist to protect victims’ rights, including the right to sue the government. These statutes have special rules and procedures. This complexity can make the legal process more challenging. A personal injury attorney can assess your situation and determine if you have a valid claim.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Government Entity Liability Lawyer?

Most personal injury lawyers who handle cases against government entities work on a contingency fee basis. In this arrangement, you don’t pay any upfront lawyer costs or hourly fees. Your attorney only gets paid if they obtain compensation on your behalf. So, if you’re asking, “Do lawyers get paid if they win?”

In this payment structure, yes, they only receive payment if the case is successful. However, certain case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. You can clarify this to your attorney during your meeting or onboarding process.

This approach enables injured victims to access skilled legal help, regardless of their ability to pay. At Arash Law, we take personal injury cases on a contingency basis. If you’ve suffered injuries because of government negligence, we offer free initial consultations. We can help you understand your rights and options.

What Is Causing The Government Shutdown?

In the past, shutdowns occurred for various reasons, but disputes were typically the primary cause. The U.S. government shut down on October 1, 2025, after Democrats and Republicans failed to agree on a new budget. Without an agreement, the president can’t sign a new fiscal plan. This conflict impacts agencies and programs that depend on the budget. The government put about 750,000 federal workers on unpaid leave. It also suspended many programs and services. Some employees must continue working without pay, while other non-essential government activities stop.

There will be no abrupt change to your Medicare or Medicaid coverage. Still, some services may have longer processing times due to administrative delays. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), such as HICAP in California, will continue to operate. Still, they might not receive help from federal Health and Human Services (HHS) employees. Improvements to Medicare.gov may take longer than planned. Additionally, fewer federal employees may be available to answer questions or address issues.

Will A Government Shutdown Affect My Social Security Disability Hearing?

Social Security Disability hearings will continue as scheduled, even during a government shutdown. However, the agency announced that it will operate with limited services. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is an important agency. Its main tasks, such as disability hearings, will continue to run on schedule. Hearing offices will remain open to hold hearings before Administrative Law Judges.

The government shutdown will not delay your hearing date. Some administrative services might take longer than usual. So, plan to attend your scheduled hearing unless there is an announced rescheduling.

Does A Government Shutdown Affect Workers’ Comp?

Many people worry about delays in processing their ongoing workers’ compensation applications. Most state-level programs should continue to operate during a federal government shutdown. There could be some impacts, but they should not be significant.

Most state workers’ compensation systems will remain active since they do not generally rely on federal funding. In the private sector, benefits and automated claim payments will typically continue. If the shutdown lasts a prolonged period, some administrative services may still become less efficient. For example, approvals for new workers’ compensation claims might require more time. Workers’ compensation lawyers can help you understand what options you may have during the shutdown. Your options may depend on your situation.

Here are some important things to know if the government handles your compensation:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) — Some people may experience delays. If you get both workers’ compensation and SSDI, communication between federal and state agencies might slow down. This issue can lead to delays in policy updates, benefit changes, or rate adjustments.
• Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) — Furloughs can delay both paychecks and FECA benefits. FECA serves as the government’s version of workers’ compensation. Even during a shutdown, FECA staff will continue to work on key services. They will:
  • Process claims for injuries and wage loss.
  • Approve medical care and payments.
  • Handle written and phone inquiries about active cases.

  FECA will pause non-essential work, such as:

  • Overpayment and debt collection.
  • Award adjudication and payment scheduling.
  • Entitlement reviews for long-term cases.
  • Correspondence related to these paused activities.

How Long Would A Government Shutdown Last?

A government shutdown continues until Congress and the President reach an agreement on a budget for federal agencies. The length of a shutdown depends on how quickly lawmakers can resolve the budget issue. In the past, shutdowns have lasted for different lengths of time. The longest one occurred between December 2018 and January 2019, lasting 35 days. Other shutdowns were much shorter. There were shutdowns for 3 days in January 2018, 16 days in 2013, 5 days in November 1995, and 21 days in December 1995.

To end a shutdown, Congress must pass spending bills, and the President must sign them into law. Until then, some government services may remain closed or operate at reduced capacity.

Contact Us For Your Personal Injury Case During The Government Shutdown

The effects of a government shutdown may not be immediately apparent, but they worsen over time as grants and emergency funds are depleted. When this happens, safety oversight weakens, legal processes slow, and more people feel the consequences.

A government shutdown creates uncertainty and increases the risk of accidents. At Arash Law, our lawyers handle personal injury cases. We assist victims in understanding their legal rights and identifying every avenue for recovery when another party is responsible for their losses.

If you got hurt during the government shutdown, our team can review your case and explain your potential claims. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form to schedule a consultation.