Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Washington State

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How Long After a Personal Injury Can you Sue in Washington State?

Washington State law gives injury victims three years to file a personal injury lawsuit under RCW 4.16.080.

Miss this deadline and Washington courts will dismiss your case.

You lose your right to seek compensation permanently.

The three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington applies in most negligence claims involving:

However, there are a few notable exceptions it's vital to be aware of if you don't want to lose your right to bring legal action.

If you were injured due to someone else's negligence, contact our Washington injury attorneys immediately to protect your legal rights.

3-year deadline from the date of injury for most personal injury claims under RCW 4.16.080
2 years for intentional torts like assault and battery under RCW 4.16.100
There are other administrative deadlines to be aware of which must be met
Exceptions exist for claims involving minors, the government, incapacitation, and state absent defendants
Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney about taking legal action as soon as possible

Experienced injury lawyers available near you to review your case

Washington law provides several exceptions that can extend your filing deadline beyond the standard three years.

Discuss your potential case with skilled legal representation who will review what deadlines apply and must be met to take legal action.

Claims Involving Minors Under Age 18 The deadline doesn't run until the child turns 18. An injured minor has until their 21st birthday to file. Parents can file on behalf of children, but the child keeps independent rights to sue after turning 18.
Claims Involving Plaintiff Mental Incapacity (RCW 4.16.190) Severe mental incapacity of the plaintiff during the 3-year period after injury pauses the deadline. Traumatic brain injury, dementia, or other conditions that prevent understanding legal rights toll the statute. Requires medical documentation to prove incapacity. The clock starts when competency returns.
Claims Involving Absent Defendants The personal injury statute of limitations tolls if the defendant in the case leaves the state or goes into hiding. The statute tolls during any absence period of the defendant in the case.
Claims Involving the Government The legal procedure is different when suing the government. Rules require state agencies, counties, cities, schools, and transit authorities be given a written claim notice before you file a lawsuit. Then you must wait 60 days before filing a lawsuit in court.

Our Washington personal injury lawyers provide free case evaluations to injury victims throughout the state.

We review your circumstances, explain your legal options, and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to recover.

You pay nothing unless we win your case.

We handle personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis.

No upfront costs.

No retainer fees.

Let us get started on the work required to build a strong case for your maximum compensation.

Call our Washington injury attorneys at 888-713-6653 for your free consultation.

Available 24/7 to answer your questions and protect your legal rights.

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