Claims for Damages

 You must file your claim within the state statute of limitations. There are different statutes of limitation for different types of claims. See RCW 4.16.160.

Yes. You must file a claim if you feel the City of Mercer Island is responsible for your loss, injury, or damages.

 The considerations in evaluating a claim include:

1. The particular facts of the alleged loss,  
2. The applicable law,  
3. Whether the City of Mercer Island has legal responsibility,
4. The claimant's role in the situation, and
5. The nature and extent of damages claimed.

 Claims must include:

• The claimant’s name, date of birth and contact info;
• A description of the conduct that brought about the injury or damage;
• A description of the injury or damage;
• A statement of the time and place that the injury or damage occurred;
• A listing of the names of all persons involved and contact information, if known;
• A statement of the amount of damages claim; and
• A statement of the actual residence of the claimant at the time of presenting the claim and at the time the claim arose.

And, the form must be signed either:

• By the claimant, verifying the claim;
• Pursuant to a written power of attorney, by the attorney in fact for the claimant;
• By an attorney admitted to practice in Washington on the claimant’s behalf; or
• By a court-approved guardian or guardian ad litem on behalf of the claimant.

The claims process follows Washington State Law Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 4.96.020.