If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Washington, whether on the streets of Seattle, a rural road, or a busy interstate, it’s important to know your legal rights. Understanding Washington’s car accident laws can help you protect your health, finances, and future after a crash. This guide outlines everything from liability rules and insurance requirements to personal injury claims, rideshare accidents, and what to do if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance.
Washington Is an At-Fault State
Washington operates under a fault-based system for auto accidents. This means the driver who causes the crash is financially responsible for all resulting injuries and property damage. If you’ve been injured, you have the right to:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance
- File a claim with your own insurance (if you have applicable coverage)
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver
Determining who is at fault is the first and most important step in building your claim.
Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident—even up to 99%.
However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $50,000 but are found 30% at fault, you would receive $35,000.
Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage in Washington
To legally drive in Washington, all motorists must carry minimum liability coverage of:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
Drivers are also offered, but not required to purchase:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage
PIP provides immediate payment for medical expenses, regardless of fault, and is often worth adding to your policy.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits
In Washington, the deadline to file a personal injury or property damage claim after a car accident is three years from the date of the crash. This includes:
- Personal injury lawsuits
- Property damage claims
- Wrongful death claims (three years from the date of death)
Failing to file your claim within this period can permanently prevent you from recovering any compensation.
When to Report a Car Accident in Washington
You must report a crash to law enforcement if:
- Anyone is injured or killed
- Property damage appears to be $1,000 or more
If a police officer does not respond to the scene, you’re required to file a report with the Washington State Patrol within four days. Always keep a copy of the report for insurance or legal use.
Personal Injury Law in Washington
Under Washington’s personal injury laws, you have the right to seek compensation if someone else’s negligence causes you harm. In addition to car accidents, this includes:
- Truck and motorcycle crashes
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Dog bites
- Slip and fall injuries
- Product liability
There are no damage caps for car accident or personal injury claims in Washington, allowing you to recover full compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
Car accident victims in Washington may be entitled to a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or scarring
Your settlement or court award will depend on the severity of your injuries and the available insurance coverage.
Rideshare Accidents in Washington
If you were injured in an accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service in Washington, different insurance policies may apply depending on the driver’s activity:
- App on, no ride accepted: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage
- Ride accepted or passenger onboard: Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage
Whether you’re a rideshare passenger or another driver, you may be eligible for compensation under the rideshare company’s insurance.
What If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?
If you are hit by a driver who has no insurance or not enough to cover your losses, you may be able to use your UM/UIM coverage if you purchased it. This can help pay for medical bills, lost income, and more.
UM/UIM is not required in Washington but is strongly recommended to protect yourself in hit-and-run or uninsured driver situations.
Should You Contact a Lawyer After a Washington Car Accident?
If your injuries are serious, your claim is denied, or fault is unclear, it’s smart to consult a car accident attorney. A lawyer can help preserve your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Most attorneys offer free consultations and only get paid if they win your case, so there’s no risk in reaching out for help.