Russell & Hill - Injury & Accident Attorneys

What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Washington State?

Under RCW 4.16.080, you have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington State. Wrongful death claims are also subject to the three-year limit under RCW 4.16.080(2). Some claims, including those against government entities, require a tort claim notice within an even shorter window. We recommend speaking with an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Is Washington a comparative negligence state?

Yes. Washington follows a pure comparative fault rule under RCW 4.22.005. You can recover damages even if you were partly at fault for the accident, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. There is no bar at 50% as in some other states; even if you are 90% at fault, you may still recover 10% of your damages.

How does Washington Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage work after a car accident?

Washington requires auto insurers to offer PIP coverage of at least $10,000 per person under RCW 48.22.085. PIP pays your medical bills and a portion of lost wages regardless of fault. You may decline PIP only by signing a written waiver. Using PIP does not typically increase premiums when you are not at fault.

Do I have to pay anything to hire a personal injury lawyer?

No. Russell & Hill - Injury & Accident Attorneys handles personal injury cases on a contingency-fee basis. There is no upfront cost and no fee unless we recover compensation for you. Initial consultations are free. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes; choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.

What evidence do I need for a Washington personal injury claim?

Strong claims rely on: (1) the police or collision report, (2) complete medical records and bills documenting your injuries and treatment, (3) photographs of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries, (4) witness contact information and statements, and (5) records of lost wages from your employer. Preserving this evidence early is critical because Washington's three-year statute of limitations runs whether or not evidence has been gathered.