You Ask, I Answer

In most personal injury cases in Washington — car accidents, motorcycle crashes, slip and falls, wrongful death — you generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit (RCW 4.16.080). For wrongful death, it's three years from the date of death. Some exceptions exist, such as cases involving minors, delayed discovery of the injury, or claims against government entities (which can be much shorter, sometimes 60–90 days for notice). Because evidence disappears and memories fade quickly, I always recommend reaching out as soon as possible after an accident or loss.

For Jones Act and most maritime injury claims (including those involving Washington or Alaska waters), you generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit (46 U.S.C. § 30106). This applies to negligence claims against your employer or unseaworthiness claims against the vessel owner. Maintenance and cure benefits don't have the same strict deadline, but you should claim them promptly — delays can complicate proof and payment.

Yes — if you were injured while working as a seaman on a fishing boat in Alaska (or anywhere in navigable waters), you likely have strong rights under federal maritime law, including the Jones Act, no matter where you live. The Jones Act applies nationwide to U.S. seamen and allows you to sue your employer for negligence if unsafe conditions contributed to your injury — even slightly. You're also entitled to maintenance and cure regardless of fault.