(a) A claim can be settled only if presented in writing within two years after it accrues.

(b) The two year statute of limitations is not tolled until the Office of the Chief Counsel of the Maritime Administration receives from a claimant, or the claimant's duly authorized agent or legal representative, an executed Standard Form 95, “Claims for Damage, Injury, or Death,” or written notification of an incident, together with a claim for money damages in a sum certain, for death, personal injury, or damage to or loss of real or personal property. When a claim is received in any office, mail unit, or other Maritime Administration activity other than the Office of the Chief Counsel, such office, unit or activity shall transmit it to the Office of the Chief Counsel without delay.