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Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Washington

Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Washington, the deadline to file, and any limits on damages.

Short answer: The personal representative of the person who died brings the action, for economic and noneconomic damages suffered by the beneficiaries. Rev. Code Wash. §§ 4.20.010, 4.20.020, 4.20.046

Who can sue for wrongful deathThe personal representative of the person who died brings the action, for economic and noneconomic damages suffered by the beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are the spouse or state registered domestic partner and the children (including stepchildren); if there are none, the parents or siblings. The personal representative can also recover, for those beneficiaries, the person's own pain and suffering before death under the survival statute.

More Washington personal injury & wrongful death

FAQ

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington?
The personal representative of the person who died brings the action, for economic and noneconomic damages suffered by the beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are the spouse or state registered domestic partner and the children (including stepchildren); if there are none, the parents or siblings. The personal representative can also recover, for those beneficiaries, the person's own pain and suffering before death under the survival statute.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.