Question 1: The symptoms of pain from my serious injury do not seem to be going away any time soon. I do not want to rush a settlement or a trial before either my condition has resolved or I know more about the long-term consequences of my injuries. How long do I have before I must take legal action on my claim?
Answer: Generally, in the context of the ordinary “garden-variety” motor vehicle collision in the State of Washington, or any lawsuit based on negligence or carelessness for that matter, will be barred or lost if it is not legally commenced within three (3) years, measured from the date the injury actually occurred. Special rules apply if your injuries were caused by medical or other professional negligence (malpractice). Special rules also apply as to how you compute the three (3) year period and what must be done to stop the time from running. Different statutes of limitation apply in other states and some are as short as one (1) year. If your claim arose outside the State of Washington, and you are unsure as to when the statute of limitations expires, consult an experienced personal injury attorney in your locale as soon as possible.
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