Federal Way Personal Injury Law FAQ's

What is the legal definition of personal injury in Federal Way and Washington?

Personal injury refers to physical or psychological harm suffered by an individual due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. This can include injuries from car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, and more.

Under Washington State law, how much time do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Federal Way?

In Washington, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is three years from the date of the injury. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you may be barred from seeking compensation.

How is comparative fault or negligence assessed in Federal Way personal injury cases under Washington law?

Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partially at fault for your injury, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are 30% at fault and your damages amount to $100,000, you would receive $70,000.

What types of damages can I claim in a personal injury lawsuit in Federal Way?

You may claim compensatory damages which include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly egregious behavior.

Does Washington have a cap on the amount of damages I can receive for a personal injury case?

Washington State does not have a cap on compensatory damages in personal injury cases. However, there are some restrictions on non-economic damages like pain and suffering in certain medical malpractice cases.

I was injured in a car accident in Federal Way. How does Washington’s ‘fault’ car insurance system impact my claim?

Washington is a ‘fault’ car insurance state, meaning the party at fault for the accident is responsible for any resulting harm. You have the option to file a claim with your own insurance company, the at-fault driver’s insurance, or directly file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

Can I file a personal injury lawsuit in Federal Way if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, thanks to the state’s pure comparative negligence rule. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage you were at fault.

How does the personal injury claim process work in Federal Way? Can I settle without going to court?

Most personal injury claims start with negotiations between the injured party and the insurance company. Many claims are settled out of court. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.

Do I need to hire a local Federal Way attorney for my personal injury case, or can I choose someone from anywhere in Washington?

While you can choose any licensed attorney in Washington, hiring a local Federal Way attorney can be advantageous due to their familiarity with local courts, procedures, and potential jurors.

How do I determine the value of my personal injury claim in Federal Way?

The value of your claim depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Consulting with an attorney can provide a clearer picture of potential compensation.