WHAT TO DO AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT IN WASHINGTON
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What to Do After a Car Accident in WA
Table Of Contents
Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
The moments after a car accident can be disorienting. Take a deep breath and check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 right away. Don’t try to move injured people unless there’s an immediate danger, like a fire or fuel leak.
Call 911 and Report the Crash
Under RCW 46.52.030, Washington drivers are required to report collisions that cause injury, death, or substantial property damage.
- Call 911 to notify police and emergency responders
- Request a police report. This information will be helpful for your claim.
- Cooperate with law enforcement, but don’t admit fault
If the accident is minor and doesn’t meet reporting thresholds, you can submit a collision report online through the Washington State Patrol.
Move to Safety, If You Can
If the vehicles are drivable and no one is badly hurt, move to the side of the road. Turn on hazard lights and place flares or cones if you have them. This helps stop more crashes, especially in busy or low-visibility areas.
Exchange Information
You’re legally required to exchange specific information with the other driver, including:
- Name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance carrier and policy number
Avoid discussing who caused the crash or making statements like “I’m sorry,” since even small comments can be used against you later.
Document the Scene
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, skid marks, and road conditions
- Photograph driver’s licenses and insurance cards
- Note time of day, weather, and traffic signs
- Get names and contact info from witnesses
This documentation will help support your insurance claim and any upcoming legal proceedings.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to see a doctor after a crash. Many injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, aren’t immediately obvious.
Record your symptoms and treatments. This builds a medical record that can support your claim later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require immediate notice of a crash. When reporting:
- Stick to the facts. Don’t speculate or place blame.
- Don’t provide a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer.
- Mention if the other driver fled (hit-and-run) or was deemed impaired (DUI)
If you carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, this might help cover expenses even if the other driver is at fault.
Know Your Rights Under Washington Law
Washington is a fault-based state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the damages.
You might qualify for compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Car repairs or replacement
- Long-term disability
Even if you’re partly at fault, Washington’s comparative fault law might still enable you to recover damages, decreased by your percentage of responsibility. Visit our Comparative Fault in Washington and Uninsured Motorist Lawyer Tacoma pages to learn more.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer if You’re Injured
Insurance companies aren’t always looking out for your best interests. Before accepting a settlement or making any official statement, consult a lawyer.
At Morgan Hill P.C., we’ve assisted numerous car accident victims in Tacoma and throughout Washington in understanding their rights and securing the compensation they deserve.
Your consultation is free, and you don’t pay unless we win.
Call us today or schedule a consultation online.
FAQ: Post-Accident Help in Washington
Q: Do I have to report every accident in Washington?
A: No. Only report collisions that cause injury, death, or at least $1,000 in damage. However, calling 911 is always the safest choice.
Q: Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
A: Not without legal advice. They might attempt to persuade you to say something that downplays or contradicts your claim.
Q: What if the other driver left the scene?
A: That’s a hit-and-run. Report it right away and contact us. Your UM coverage might still be valid.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Washington, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the accident date. But don’t wait. Acting early helps preserve evidence and boosts your chances.
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