Should You Call the Police After a Minor Car Accident in Washington?

Even a seemingly minor fender bender can be jarring – and in the moment, it can be difficult to know what steps to take. One of the most common questions drivers have after a minor car accident in Washington is whether they should call the police. The short answer is: in many cases, yes. There are both legal and practical reasons why notifying law enforcement can be important, even if the damage appears minimal or no one seems seriously hurt.

If you’ve been in a car accident, minor or not, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Call the Everett car accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm now at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today.

What the Law Says in Washington State

Under Washington law (RCW 46.52.030), drivers involved in a collision must stop and exchange information. If the accident results in injury, death, or property damage totaling $1,000 or more, you are required to file a collision report within four days if a police officer does not file one.

While the law doesn’t require you to call the police for every minor accident, it does obligate you to report if the damage or injuries meet that threshold. Since it can be hard to estimate the exact cost of repairs at the scene – and injuries like whiplash may not show symptoms right away – calling the police can help ensure that a report is filed and that the situation is documented properly.

Why Calling the Police May Help You Later

Even if the accident seems minor, contacting law enforcement can protect you legally and financially. Here’s how:

• Accurate Documentation: A police officer can create an official report, which is often vital when dealing with insurance companies or any legal disputes that may arise later.
• Avoiding Disputes: Sometimes, what appears to be a straightforward situation can become complicated if the other driver changes their story after leaving the scene. A police report can provide an objective account of what happened.
• Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often ask for a police report number when processing claims. Without it, your claim might be delayed or denied altogether.

When You Might Not Need to Call

If no one is injured, both vehicles are drivable, and the property damage is clearly less than $1,000, you may decide not to call the police. In that case, be sure to:

• Exchange names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
• Take photos of the vehicles, the damage, and the accident scene.
• Note the time, date, and location.
• Get contact information for any witnesses.

Still, even in these situations, it’s often a good idea to call the non-emergency police line and ask if an officer can come to the scene or if a report should be filed. This helps cover your bases.

What If the Police Don’t Come?

Sometimes, especially after minor accidents or during busy times, officers may not be dispatched. If that happens, you should file a collision report yourself through the Washington State Patrol website. Keeping a record can be essential for protecting your rights.

Final Thoughts

Calling the police after a minor car accident in Washington may seem unnecessary, but it’s often the wisest course of action. An official report can make all the difference in ensuring your rights are protected, especially when injuries or damages become more apparent after the fact.

Have questions after an accident? The experienced team of Everett injury attorneys at Brumley Law Firm is here to help. Call us today at (833) 832-2727 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.