Car accidents are stressful. After a crash, it’s important to know how the law works in Washington. Whether you’re trying to file an insurance claim or wondering if you can sue the other driver, understanding the basic rules can help you make smart choices. Washington has specific laws about fault, insurance, reporting, and more.
Here’s a breakdown of the main laws and rules that apply if you’ve been in a car accident in Washington State.
Washington Is a Fault State
Washington follows a fault-based system. This means the person who caused the accident is responsible for paying for the damage. If another driver caused the crash, you have three options:
- File a claim with their insurance company
- File a claim with your own insurance, who may then go after the at-fault party
- File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver
This system gives people the chance to get full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.
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Required Car Insurance in Washington
Every driver in Washington must carry liability insurance or another form of financial responsibility.
The minimum insurance coverage required includes:
- $25,000 for injuries or death to one person
- $50,000 for injuries or death to two or more people
- $10,000 for property damage
Instead of buying insurance, drivers can also:
- Put down a $60,000 deposit with the Washington Department of Licensing
- Get a $60,000 liability bond from a surety company
Proof of insurance must be shown during traffic stops and after an auto accident. Acceptable proof includes a physical or digital insurance card. Driving without insurance can lead to fines up to $550, license suspension, and being held personally responsible for crash costs.
When You Need to Report a Car Accident
Washington law says you must report a crash if it:
- Causes an injury or death
- Causes property damage over $1,000
You should call the police or the Washington State Patrol right away. If an officer does not respond, drivers must fill out a collision report form and send it to the state within four days.
Failing to report a crash can lead to fines or penalties, and it can also hurt your chances of making a strong claim later on.
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Understanding Comparative Negligence
Our Bothell car crash attorneys use a system called pure comparative negligence. This means more than one person can share the blame for a crash. If you’re partly at fault, you can still recover money, but your amount will be reduced based on your share of fault.
Example:
If you’re 30% at fault and your damages total $10,000, you can still recover $7,000.
If you’re 70% at fault, you can still recover $3,000.
This rule applies whether you settle with insurance or go to court.
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Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
In Washington, you have three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit for:
- Personal injuries
- Property damage
If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover any money. It’s smart to start the process early, especially if medical care or legal help is needed.
Distracted Driving Is Against the Law
Washington bans handheld phone use while driving. The law applies even if you’re stopped at a red light or in traffic.
Here’s what’s not allowed:
- Texting or reading messages
- Holding your phone during a call
- Browsing apps or the internet
The first ticket comes with a fine of at least $145, and insurance companies will likely raise your rates. A second offense within five years brings a $243 fine.
Teen drivers face even tougher rules—they’re not allowed to use any device, even hands-free, unless it’s an emergency. Repeated offenses can lead to license suspension.
“Secondary distractions” like eating, grooming, or adjusting the radio aren’t automatically ticketed, but if they cause a crash, drivers can face reckless driving charges.
Hit-and-Run Laws in Washington
Drivers must stop and help after a crash. That includes giving your name and insurance info and helping anyone who is hurt.
Leaving the scene of a crash has serious consequences:
- Property damage only: Gross misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail, and fines up to $5,000
- Injury or death: Felony, up to 10 years in prison, and fines up to $50,000
- Hitting an unattended vehicle: Must leave your info or contact the police
In addition to criminal penalties, hit-and-run drivers can lose their license and face civil lawsuits.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
This coverage isn’t required in Washington, but it can make a big difference. If you’re hit by someone without insurance or with too little insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for your injuries and damages.
Many people don’t find out how important this coverage is until it’s too late.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection
Drivers must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and must give cyclists space on the road. Pedestrians and bicyclists have the same legal protections as drivers.
If a driver hits a pedestrian or cyclist, they may face both civil and criminal penalties, especially if distracted or reckless driving was involved.
Conclusion: Get Help If You’ve Been in a Car Accident
If you were hurt in a car accident in Washington, there’s a lot to deal with—insurance forms, medical bills, missed work, and more. You don’t have to go through it alone. A car accident lawyer can explain your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and help you get the money you deserve.
Call (425) 835-2614 to talk with someone about your case. There’s no pressure—just answers and help when you need it most.
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