Washington Car Accident Report Basics

By Christie Nicholson, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq. | Last reviewed May 29, 2024

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Whether you're driving in Seattle to visit the Space Needle or commuting to work in Bellevue, you risk getting into an accident. According to Washington law, you must report your car accident to the Washington Department of Transportation (WDOT). 

Technically, you don’t have to report every motor vehicle accident. But if the crash causes physical injury or more than $700 in property damage, you must submit an accident report within four days of the accident. 

This article will explain the laws regarding crash reports in the state of Washington, describe how to file a report, and discuss why contacting law enforcement immediately after a collision is important.

Washington Car Accident Report Overview

The following chart outlines the process of filing a car crash report in Washington and other Washington car accident report requirements.

State Statutes

Washington Codes (Motor Vehicles) § 46.52.030

When To Report

Unless a police officer submits a written report, you must report an auto accident to the Washington DOT if any of the following occur:

  • Death

  • Bodily injury

  • More than $1,000 in property damage 

You must file this report within four days of the car crash.

How To File a Car Crash Report in Washington

If you’re in a vehicle collision meeting the above conditions, you must file a Collision Report Form with the Washington DOT.

According to the RCW 46.52.030, your report must include:

  • Your name, address, and driver's license number

  • The location and date of the accident

  • Your vehicle registration number

  • Whether there were any injured persons

  • Contact information for the drivers, passengers, and witnesses

  • Detailed and current information regarding your insurance coverage

  • A detailed explanation of the accident

  • A description of the weather and road conditions 

If law enforcement officers respond to the accident scene, they will submit their police report. Their report must include notes on the following:

  • Insurance information for the motorists involved in the crash

  • Whether any of the drivers were distracted at the time of the crash

  • Whether the crash was a hit-and-run

  • If the collision resulted in any personal property damage

Note: State laws are subject to change through new legislation, higher court rulings, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information, seek legal advice from an experienced car accident attorney or conduct legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Washington Car Accident Reporting Requirements

Washington's car accident law is clear. The state may suspend or revoke your driver's license if you don't report the accident, per Washington law. 

Remember that if a police officer filed an accident report, you don’t need to file a report with the Washington DOT. The police department must forward a copy of the crash report to the Washington State Patrol in Olympia, Washington.

Leaving the Scene of the Accident

As a responsible driver, you should never leave the scene of an accident. You must stay and help accident victims who suffer a personal injury.

If you leave an accident scene, the state may suspend or revoke your driver's license. You may also face criminal charges and fines.

No Insurance at the Time of the Accident

If you don't have auto insurance at the time of the accident, the state will suspend your driving privileges. You'll have to file proof of future financial responsibility (or form SR-22) to reinstate them.

Get Legal Help With Your Questions About Washington Car Accident Reports

If you still have questions about how to file a car crash report in Washington, contact a personal injury lawyer. Knowing what to do can save you money and prevent additional hardships. It can also increase the odds of the insurance company paying your car accident claim.

To learn more and get ahead of the curve, visit Findlaw.com’s attorney directory. 

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