Car accidents in Alaska can be complicated by weather, wildlife, and rural road conditions. Whether you’re in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or traveling the Alaska Highway, it’s important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities after a crash. This guide explains the most important car accident laws in Alaska so you can take the right steps to protect yourself and pursue compensation.
Alaska Is an At-Fault State
Alaska operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the person who caused the accident is financially responsible for resulting damages. If you are injured, you have several options:
- File a claim with your own insurance company
- File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party
Determining fault is critical in these cases, and evidence such as police reports, photos, and witness statements can play a major role.
Pure Comparative Fault Rule
Alaska follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you are partly at fault for the crash. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 30% responsible, your compensation will be reduced by 30%.
Mandatory Car Insurance in Alaska
Alaska requires all drivers in non-exempt areas (like Anchorage and Fairbanks) to carry minimum liability insurance. As of 2025, the required limits are:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Some rural areas are exempt from mandatory auto insurance laws, but if you’re involved in an accident, you could still be held financially liable.
Time Limit to File a Car Accident Claim
The statute of limitations for personal injury or property damage claims in Alaska is two years from the date of the accident. You must file a lawsuit within this time frame, or your case may be dismissed. It’s smart to begin gathering evidence and speaking with an attorney long before the deadline.
Reporting Requirements After a Crash
You must report a car accident to law enforcement in Alaska if:
- Anyone is injured or killed
- There is property damage of $2,000 or more
- A driver is intoxicated or unlicensed
You also need to submit a written accident report to the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days if the above conditions apply.
Dealing with Uninsured Drivers and Hit-and-Runs
Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage are optional in Alaska but strongly recommended. These coverages help pay for your losses if the at-fault driver has little or no insurance—or flees the scene. If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage and the at-fault driver is never found, recovering damages can be difficult.
Recoverable Damages in an Alaska Car Accident
You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The total amount depends on the severity of your injuries and how they affect your daily life.
Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Alaska?
If your case involves serious injuries, disputed liability, or insurance pushback, hiring a car accident lawyer is a smart move. An attorney can help collect evidence, file paperwork, and negotiate a fair settlement. They’ll also ensure your claim meets all deadlines and legal requirements, so you don’t risk losing your right to compensation.