If you’ve been injured in Washington due to someone else’s negligence, the law gives you a limited amount of time to take legal action. This deadline is called the statute of limitations. Missing it could mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
Learning how this rule works and how it could apply to your specific situation is a key part of building a successful claim. Below, we break down the essentials of Washington’s statute of limitations and what you should do if you’ve been injured.
What Is a Statute of Limitations and Why Does It Exist?
A statute of limitations is a legal time limit for filing a lawsuit. Once that deadline passes, you generally lose the right to take your case to court, no matter how strong your case is.
These rules apply in all areas of civil law, including personal injury, and they exist for a few important reasons:
- Preserving evidence: Over time, memories fade, witnesses move away, and physical evidence can be lost or destroyed. A time limit helps ensure the facts of the case are still fresh.
- Encouraging timely action: The law expects injured people to assert their rights within a reasonable period, which creates fairness and predictability for both sides.
Ultimately, statutes of limitations are in place in the spirit of fairness and efficiency.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases in Washington?
Under Washington law, the standard time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the injury. This rule is laid out in RCW 4.16.080, and it applies to most types of personal injury claims, including:
The three-year window typically starts running on the day of your accident or injury. If you try to file a lawsuit after the deadline passes, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case.
Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Washington State
Are There Any Exceptions to the Deadline?
Yes, but they are limited. Washington allows for exceptions in certain situations, though they are not guaranteed. A few examples include:
- Delayed discovery: If you didn’t know you were injured or didn’t discover the cause right away, the clock might start when you reasonably should have known.
- Injured minors: If the person hurt is under 18, the three-year window usually begins once they turn 18.
- Claims against the government require you to file a notice of claim and wait 60 days before filing suit (though the statute of limitations is paused during that notice period).
Because the exceptions are narrow and fact-specific, it’s wise to speak with a Seattle personal injury lawyer as soon as possible if you think one might apply to your case.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Washington State for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s carelessness, the clock may already be ticking. Washington’s statute of limitations gives you a limited time to file a personal injury claim, and missing the deadline can mean walking away with nothing.
Contact Seattle Injury Law for a free consultation today to get started with your case. We’ll make sure your claim is filed on time. We also work on a contingency fee basis, so we only get paid if you do.