Car accidents are unfortunately common across Washington State. Learning about how the law handles these cases can make a major difference if you’re ever involved in one. From insurance requirements to liability rules, Washington’s car accident laws are designed to ensure that victims have a fair opportunity to recover compensation for their losses.
Learn more about the state’s car accident legal framework below, and get in touch with an experienced auto accident attorney in Seattle for a free consultation if you’ve been involved in a crash.
Washington Is an “At-Fault” Car Insurance State
Unlike some other states that follow “no-fault” insurance systems, Washington operates under a fault-based system. This means that the driver responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for the damages that result.
If you were injured in a car accident, you can typically pursue compensation in one of three ways:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
- File a claim with your own insurance provider (if you have applicable coverage, such as MedPay)
- File a personal injury lawsuit directly against the negligent driver
This system gives victims flexibility in terms of their legal options, but it also means that determining fault is critical. It’s important to point out as well that any insurance company involved in your case (whether it’s yours or the other party’s) does not have your best interests in mind; rather, they want to minimize their liability and maintain their profits.
What Is Washington’s Comparative Fault Law?
Washington follows a pure comparative negligence law. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the crash. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were awarded $100,000 but found to be 30% at fault, your recovery would be reduced to $70,000.
Your car accident lawyer can help you respond to any allegations of shared fault appropriately so that you can recover everything you’re entitled to.
Minimum Insurance Requirements in Washington State
All drivers in Washington must carry liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. These are currently as follows:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people
- $10,000 for property damage
While these are the minimum limits, many drivers choose higher coverage to protect themselves from the high costs of serious accidents. You can also purchase optional coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) and collision insurance, among others.
If you are hit by an uninsured driver, it is important to consult with an experienced uninsured motorist accident attorney in Seattle about your legal options.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Lawsuits in Washington?
If you decide to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Washington, you generally have three years from the date of the crash to do so. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations.
Failing to file your claim before the time limit expires usually means losing your right to recover compensation entirely. However, as there are some exceptions that apply in rare cases, it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after the accident.
Contact a Washington Car Accident Lawyer With Seattle Injury Law for Help
Navigating Washington’s car accident laws can feel impossible when you’re dealing with serious injuries and multiple insurance companies. An experienced attorney in this area of the law can help ensure your legal rights are protected and fight for the full amount of compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a crash anywhere in Washington State, contact Seattle Injury Law for a free consultation today. We’ve won hundreds of millions for our clients and will work just as hard on your claim.
