A personal injury claim is usually a legal notice or demand for recovery for injury sustained by a third party. Injuries sustained from a motor vehicle accident are usually documented by filing a claim with the insurance company representing the person or third party at fault. An attorney will file a lawsuit against the person or third party when their insurance company wrongfully delays or denies a legitimate claim. 

These PI claims can also be filed against self-insured third parties and local, state and federal agencies. Claims filed against state agencies must first file a tort claim before they can file a lawsuit. Lawsuits are filed in the county of the Superior Court in which the injury occurred. Personal injury claims involving workplace injuries are filed with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Personal injury claims must be filed with insurance companies, self-insured, and government agencies. The plaintiff (personal injury victim) must wait 60 days before a lawsuit can be filed. It is important to consult with an attorney to protect your legal rights and ensure your case is properly filed and meets all legal requirements.

Personal injury attorneys review each case for liability – the person or entity who is at fault for your case. Some cases may involve comparative fault or joint and several liability – whereby multiple parties are at fault. It is important to have your case evaluated by a personal injury attorney before speaking with opposing counsel or third parties who may try and contact you after an auto accident or personal injury incident.

Legal deadlines to file a lawsuit vary. Contact GTH to evaluate your deadlines

Injured people have three years from the date of injury to file a legal claim or lawsuit in the state of Washington. Victims of sexual assault and abuse have a statute of limitations of 20 years from the date of the abuse prior to June 6, 2024. However, there are exceptions, and you should contact GTH to discuss these potential exceptions. Cases involving incidents of sexual abuse or assault, after June 6, 2024, do not have a statute of limitations.

You should retain a personal attorney who has experience filing personal injury cases in Snohomish, King, Thurston, or Pierce counties, or the relevant Superior Court where your injury occurred. It is recommended you retain a personal injury attorney with proven results in the practice areas relevant to your case.

Careful consideration should be given to experienced law firms with a proven track record of settlements and verdicts in the practice area involving your case. You should schedule a free consultation to ensure the legal team you retain shares your goals and makes the time to meet with you personally. Personal injury cases can involve legal testimony and disclosure of personal details related to your lifestyle and medical records. You should feel comfortable with the attorneys representing you.

Your attorney should be a member of the Washington State Bar Association. Trusted personal injury attorneys are also members of the Washington State Association for Justice a statewide organization dedicated to Washington state personal injury law education and advocacy for top attorneys.