Statute of Limitations
Washington: 3 years from injury for civil lawsuits; L&I workers' comp claim within 1 year; immediate report to L&I required
3 years (civil lawsuit); L&I claim within 1 year of injury
Where to File in Washington
Washington State has a state-administered workers' compensation system through the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Workers do not file with their employer's private insurer — they file directly with L&I. Washington also has its own Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) — a state OSHA plan approved by federal OSHA. WISHA (Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act) governs construction safety. DOSH/WISHA inspection records are the primary regulatory evidence in Washington construction accident civil litigation. Washington applies pure comparative fault. Seattle's massive construction market — high-rise residential towers, the Seattle Sound Transit light rail expansion, and commercial development — creates substantial scaffold, crane, and falling object accident volume. WA Superior Courts handle civil construction accident claims.
Exposure in Washington
Source: Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I)
Source: Washington Department of Labor and Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH)