What should I do after a car accident in Washington?
Washington is an at-fault (tort) state with one of the most plaintiff-friendly comparative-fault rules in the country.
1. Immediate Steps at the Scene
2. Mandatory Reporting
3. Minimum Liability Insurance
25/50/10 under RCW 46.30.020.
4. Pure Comparative Negligence
Under RCW 4.22.005, contributory fault does not bar recovery — it merely reduces damages by the plaintiff's percentage of fault. Plaintiff can recover even at 99% fault, mirroring California's rule.
5. Statute of Limitations
6. Joint and Several Liability
Washington abolished pure joint and several liability in most cases — defendants are generally severally liable per their percentage of fault under RCW 4.22.070, with limited exceptions (e.g., concerted action, agency, fault-free plaintiff).
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Government vehicle/agency involved (60-day pre-suit notice)
- Multiple at-fault parties — apportionment matters under RCW 4.22.070
- Serious injury or wage loss exceeding minimum policy limits
- RCW 46.30.020
- RCW 46.52.020
- RCW 46.52.030
- RCW 4.16.080
- RCW 4.22.005
- RCW 4.22.070
- RCW 4.92.110
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.