WSP Reports: What You Need To Know

Most drivers are aware they should call the police when an auto accident happens, but many people forgo this step if all of the drivers involved agree the damage is minor. This decision may be made in innocence, but Washington law requires drivers to submit a Washington State Patrol (WSP) report, even in the case of a minor accident.  In fact, if the damage is at least $1,000 or any driver or passenger is injured, failure to file a report is breaking the law. Here’s what you need to know about WSP reports.

When To File A WSP

If law enforcement responds to a collision call, they will automatically file a report. There’s no need to call the police department or take further action unless you are instructed to do so. However, it is smart to check the information included in a report filed by a police officer.  Make certain the factual information, such as the date and location of the auto crash, is correct. If you disagree with or believe the information on the report is incorrect, the reporting officer may agree to amend or supplement the document.  If you wish to see the status of your report, visit the Washington Department of Transportation website. You can also request a copy of the report on the website.  When there is no on-site investigation by law enforcement, each driver is legally required to submit a collision report within four days of the incident. You can submit the report online or visit the closest Seattle police department, state patrol office, or county sheriff’s office to request a report form. You can also submit a collision report online.  Keep in mind that to stay in compliance with your insurance policy, it may be necessary to file an accident report sooner. Call your insurance agent as soon as possible to confirm the company’s specific timeline and process. 

Information Included On A WSP

Your collision report won’t indicate who caused the accident. Only factual information and witness statements are included on the WSP, such as:

• The date of the collision
• The address of the collision
• The number of vehicles involved
• Contact information of the drivers
• Injuries or fatalities related to the accident, including pedestrian injuries

The responding officer will also take statements from the drivers, passengers, and others who witnessed the event. 

Should You Call A Lawyer?

There’s no legal requirement to call an attorney after a car or truck accident, but it is in your best interests to do so. Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and will give advice tailored to your specific situation.  If you believe you were not at fault, if someone was injured, or if you suffered property damage greater than $1,000 dollars, speaking with a personal injury attorney is especially recommended.  Building a case for damages is a complex task. It requires gathering evidence like:

• Medical bills
• Police reports
• Physical evidence
• Eye-witness reports
• Photo and video evidence
• Statements from experts, such as accident reconstructionists

There are also documents to file and deadlines to meet. Taking care of all these details can be a challenge if you are recovering from an injury or have been inconvenienced by car repairs. Fortunately, a car accident lawyer can handle all of these tasks for you.

Staying Compliant With Car Collision Reports In Seattle

The WSP website is designed to be user-friendly. If a collision report has not already been filed, you can file one, request copies, and check the status of your report all in the same place.  Remember to file within four days of the accident to remain compliant with the law. You can call or live chat with WSP customer service representatives if you have more questions about filing a collision report.

Contact an Experienced Seattle Personal Injury Attorney For Help With Your Claim

If you’ve been injured in Seattle, WA, and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Contact our legal team and schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer today. We proudly serve King County in Washington and it’s surrounding areas. Visit our law office at:

Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers 2101 4th Ave 1030 Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 727 4000 Hours: Open 24/7