Washington § 5.66.010 - Admissibility of sympathetic gestures.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 5.66.010 — Admissibility of sympathetic gestures., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5.66.010. Admissibility of sympathetic gestures.

(1) The portion of statements, writings, or benevolent gestures expressing sympathy or a general sense of benevolence relating to the pain, suffering, or death of a person involved in an accident, and made to that person or to the family of that person, shall be inadmissible as evidence in a civil action. A statement of fault, however, which is part of, or in addition to, any of the above shall not be made inadmissible by this section.
(2) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Accident" means an occurrence resulting in injury or death to one or more persons that is not the result of willful action by a party.
(b) "Benevolent gestures" means actions that convey a sense of compassion or commiseration emanating from humane impulses.
(c) "Family" means the spouse or the domestic partner, parent, grandparent, stepmother, stepfather, child, grandchild, brother, sister, half brother, half sister, adopted child of a parent, or spouse's or domestic partner's parents of an injured party.
[ 2008 c 6 s 403; 2002 c 334 s 1.]

Notes

Part headings not law—Severability—2008 c 6: See RCW 26.60.900 and 26.60.901.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 5.66.010

What does Revised Code of Washington § 5.66.010 cover?

Section 5.66.010 ("Admissibility of sympathetic gestures.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 5.66.010?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 5.66.010" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

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Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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