Future Damages in Washington
In Washington, you are entitled to recover not just your current losses but also the present value of future medical expenses and lost earning capacity caused by your injuries. These future damages often represent the largest component of a serious injury claim.
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.
Pure comparative fault
Fault System
3 years
Filing Deadline
At-Fault
Auto System
Types of Future Damages in Washington
Future Medical Expenses
Cost of ongoing treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, home care, and medical equipment you will need because of your injuries.
Lost Future Earning Capacity
The present value of income you will lose if your injury permanently or partially prevents you from working at your pre-accident capacity.
Future Pain & Suffering
Washington allows recovery of future non-economic damages under pure comparative fault — reduced by your share of fault.
Future Loss of Enjoyment
Compensation for activities, hobbies, and life experiences you will permanently lose due to your injuries.
Washington Injury Law
Washington State applies pure comparative fault, allowing injured plaintiffs to recover regardless of their fault percentage, with damages reduced proportionally. The statute of limitations is 3 years for most personal injury claims. Washington does not mandate no-fault PIP coverage. Seattle and the Puget Sound corridor generate high-volume personal injury litigation including auto accidents, construction site injuries, and maritime claims on Puget Sound and Alaskan waterways. Washington has no general cap on compensatory damages and no cap on pain and suffering awards in most personal injury cases. Medical malpractice claims in Washington have a 3-year limitation period under RCW § 4.16.350 and require a certificate of merit under certain circumstances. Washington courts have been active in product liability litigation, including significant cases against Boeing and other major manufacturers. Washington's Industrial Insurance Act provides workers' compensation administered by the Department of Labor & Industries as the exclusive workplace injury remedy.