What do I need to know about the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims?

The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Washington is three years. This means that any claim for medical malpractice must be filed within three years from the date of the malpractice or the injury resulting from the malpractice. If a claim is not filed within this three-year window, it cannot be heard in court. The statute of limitations can be extended in certain circumstances. For example, if the injured person was a minor at the time of their injury, then the statute of limitations can be extended until the minor turns 18. Additionally, the statute of limitations can be “tolled” or extended if the injured person was not aware of their injury until after the three-year window had expired. It’s important to note that the statute of limitations also applies to the filing of a notice of claim. In medical malpractice cases, the injured person must serve the defendant (usually the hospital or doctor) with a notice of claim within 180 days of the injury. If the notice is not served within this time frame then the claim is rendered invalid. Overall, it’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Washington in order to ensure that your rights are protected. If you have any questions, it’s best to speak to a qualified attorney who specializes in medical malpractice law.

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What do I need to know about the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims?

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