If you’ve been in a car accident in Washington, you might wonder how long it will stay on your record and affect your insurance rates. The answer depends on whether the record is for insurance purposes or maintained by the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). Understanding the differences can help you prepare for any financial or legal impacts after a crash.
Understanding Your Driving Record in Washington
Your driving record is a history of your driving activity, including accidents, traffic violations, and license suspensions. There are two main types of records:
- Insurance Record: Used by insurance companies to determine your premiums.
- Official DOL Record: Maintained by the Washington DOL and accessed for legal or employment purposes.
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How Long Do Accidents Stay on Your Record?
The length of time an accident stays on your record varies depending on the severity of the accident and who is looking at the record.
Insurance Records
Insurance companies typically look at the last three to five years of your driving history when determining your premiums. If you were at fault, your rates might increase and remain high during that period. Each insurance company sets its own policies, so the exact duration may vary.
Washington DOL Records
The Washington Department of Licensing keeps accident records for five years if you were at fault. More serious offenses, such as DUI-related accidents, stay on your record for life and can have lasting effects on your driving privileges.
Factors That Affect How Long an Accident Impacts You
Several factors determine how long an accident will affect your insurance rates and driving record:
- Severity of the Accident: Minor fender benders typically have less impact than accidents involving serious injuries or property damage.
- Fault Determination: If you were at fault, the accident will likely have a greater impact than if another driver caused the crash.
- Insurance Company Policies: Some insurers only look at the past three years, while others consider accidents up to five years old.
- Type of Violation: Accidents involving reckless driving, hit-and-runs, or DUIs have longer-lasting consequences.
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How to Reduce the Impact of an Accident on Your Record
If an accident is affecting your record and insurance rates, there are steps you can take to minimize its impact:
- Check Your Driving Record: Review your record through the Washington DOL to ensure all information is accurate.
- Dispute Errors: If an accident is mistakenly listed as your fault, contact the DOL and your insurer to correct it.
- Maintain a Clean Record: Avoid traffic violations or additional accidents to offset the effects of a past crash.
- Take a Defensive Driving Course: Some insurers offer discounts for completing an approved driving course.
- Shop for Better Insurance Rates: Some companies are more forgiving of past accidents than others. Comparing quotes can help you find better rates.
- Wait It Out: Once the designated time period passes, the accident will no longer affect your insurance premiums or standard driving record.
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When Can an Accident Lead to Legal Trouble?
Some accidents go beyond insurance and record concerns and result in legal issues, including:
- DUI-Related Accidents: A DUI conviction remains on your driving record for life in Washington and can impact your ability to drive, get a job, or secure affordable insurance.
- Reckless Driving Accidents: If an accident involves reckless or negligent driving, you may face legal penalties, including fines, license suspension, or even jail time.
Need Help With A Car Accident?
A car accident can stay on your insurance record for three to five years and on your Washington DOL record for five years if you were at fault. More serious offenses, such as DUIs, stay on your record for life. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident and need legal guidance, Murphy Trial Law is here to help. Call us at (425) 835-2614for a free consultation and get the support you need to protect your rights.
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