What to Do After a Car Accident in Washington State

In the Aftermath of a Car Accident: What You Do Next Matters

 

A car accident can leave you shaken, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. But the steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days that follow can make a significant difference—not only in your physical recovery but also in protecting your legal rights.

 

What to Do Immediately After a Crash

• Put Safety First: If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of harm’s way and turn on your hazard lights.

• Call 911: Always report the accident—especially if anyone is hurt or there’s serious damage.

• Exchange Information: Get names, contact info, insurance details, and vehicle descriptions from everyone involved.

• Document Everything: Use your phone to take photos of the scene, the vehicles, your injuries, and anything else that might be relevant.

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries take time to surface and early care can be critical.

Reporting the Accident in Washington

In Washington State, you’re legally required to report a crash to the Department of Transportation if:

• Anyone was injured or killed

• Property damage exceeds $1,000

If a police officer wasn’t at the scene, you must file a collision report within four days. You may do so here with the Washington State Patrol: https://wrecr.wsp.wa.gov/omvcr . Additional information is available at the Department of Licensing, too: https://dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/driver-safety/reporting-collision-damage .

Why Legal Help Matters

 

Dealing with insurance companies, paperwork, and recovery is a lot to handle alone. That’s where we come in.

At Fury Duarte, we’re more than just legal advocates—we’re people who genuinely care about helping you heal and move forward. Here's how we can support you:

• Protect Your Rights: We handle all communication with insurance companies so you're not pressured into unfair settlements.

• Build a Strong Case: We gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and work with experts to prove who was at fault.

• Fight for Full Compensation: We pursue every dollar you’re owed—for medical bills, lost income, emotional distress, and more. Every person is entitled to receive full justice for the harm and losses they experienced in collision.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, let us take on the legal burden so you can focus on getting better. At Fury Duarte, we’re committed to fighting for justice—and standing with you every step of the way.