Call Us atThe Bothell car accident statute of limitations is usually three years from the date of the accident. There are a few exceptions. One involves cases where automotive equipment fails, and parties sue the manufacturer. Another special situation involves minors who were injured before their 18th birthday. Individuals with diminished mental capacity, and even those in the middle of a bankruptcy filing, may also get special extensions.
Washington is an at-fault state, meaning most accidents are caused by an at-fault driver. Sometimes, though, the Washington State Department of Transportation or even the local government responsible for road design and maintenance may be the at-fault party.
If you, your child, or another loved one were injured in an accident and need to learn more about the statute of limitations, our compassionate car accident attorneys are ready to help. Our team could help you get the compensation you deserve, even if your accident was months or years ago.
Tolling and The Car Accident Statute of Limitations for Minors and Others
Minors—individuals under the age of 18—have unique legal status and protection. This can be particularly important for parents and families of teenagers injured in a car accident in Bothell.
Young people are still growing. Their bodies and brains are still developing, and they have their entire lives ahead of them. Car accident injuries can be life-changing experiences for youngsters, especially if their injuries cause pain and suffering during their daily activities. Loss of enjoyment of life plays a huge role in the settlements offered by insurance companies, and young people who miss out on school activities and sports and those who suffer academic disadvantages due to an auto accident may be entitled to more compensation.
This extended car accident statute of limitations in Bothell is sometimes called tolling. It also applies to individuals the court considers mentally incompetent and those in the middle of bankruptcy filing.
The Discovery Rule
The human body is like an incredibly complicated machine. In some instances, it takes months or years for an accident victim to experience their injuries after a car accident. Traumatic brain injuries, for instance, may not manifest immediately. Still, their repercussions can be life-altering.
Sometimes, an injured individual may not realize they have been injured or fully understand the severity of their injuries for several months. In these situations, the state allows a lawsuit to be filed within a specific time period after the injury is discovered. Known as the discovery rule, this provision can extend or otherwise affect the statute of limitations in a Bothell auto accident case.
Call Now to Learn More About the Bothell Car Accident Statute of Limitations
Individuals injured in a car accident begin to wonder about the Bothell car accident statute of limitations when they start experiencing pain, confusion, or clouded thinking after an accident. Our savvy team of car accident attorneys is ready to help you get the compensation you deserve. Even if the accident was months or years ago, we can re-create the scene of an accident. We are determined to fight diligently for victims of car accidents, whether the at-fault party was another driver or the local government.
Contact us today to learn more about the statute of limitations and schedule your first consultation. We will not ask for any payment until you receive compensation for your injuries.
