If you've been involved in a car accident in Washington, one of the most critical legal concepts to understand is the statute of limitations—the deadline by which you must file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean permanently losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries, property damage, or other losses.



What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Washington?

In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. This time limit is established under Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 4.16.080.

If your case involves only property damage, such as damage to your vehicle or personal belongings, you also have three years to file a claim.

Why This Deadline Matters

Failing to file your claim within this time frame generally means the court will dismiss your case. Even if you have strong evidence and clear liability, waiting too long can completely bar you from recovering compensation.

Are There Any Exceptions?

While the three-year rule applies in most cases, there are some situations where the statute of limitations could be extended or "tolled":

• Minors or incapacitated persons: If the injured party is under 18 or legally incapacitated at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be paused until the person is legally capable of bringing a claim.
• Unknown injuries: In rare cases, if injuries are not immediately apparent, the clock may start when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
• Hit-and-run or uninsured driver cases: Claims involving uninsured motorists or hit-and-runs may have additional rules when filing under your own insurance policy.

Because exceptions are complex and fact-specific, it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.

How an Attorney Can Help

At Johnson Law Firm, P.C. | Personal Injury and Family Law, we assist car accident victims in Spokane and throughout Washington. We help you:

• Calculate and preserve your claim timeline
• Gather evidence to support your case
• File paperwork correctly and on time
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Pursue compensation through trial if necessary

Understanding your legal rights and taking timely action can make a significant difference in your recovery.