In Washington, most car accidents stay on your record for five years from the date of the collision. However, this timeframe may differ depending on the types of vehicles involved and which record you’re looking at.
Having an accident appear on your record does not necessarily mean that you were at fault. A driving record is meant to document specific driving activity, including any involvement in a reported collision.
A Tacoma car accident lawyer can explain how an accident may impact your record and insurance rates, while helping to determine who might have been at fault. At NextLaw, we have a team of attorneys with over 100 years of combined experience, ready to offer personalized support for your case.
How Long Does a Car Accident Stay on Your Driving Record in Washington?
This will depend on the type of vehicle you’re driving and whether you’re referring to your official driving record or insurance record.
Here’s how the two compare:
Driving Record
The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) keeps track of your driving record, documenting any collisions, violations, convictions, suspensions, and any other notable actions associated with you and your vehicle.
The following timeframes are applied to collisions:
- Non–commercial vehicles: 5 years from the date of the accident
- Commercial vehicles: 10 years from the date of the accident
- DUI–related accidents: Could remain on your record permanently
Even if you were not at fault, the incident will likely be added to your official driving record and remain there for the designated time period.
Insurance Record
Every insurer will have its own policy on how long an accident stays on your record and impacts your premiums, regardless of the type of vehicle. However, in Washington, many insurers tend to review accidents from the past three to five years when performing a risk assessment.
NextLaw can review your insurance policy and help determine how a collision may affect your coverage and premiums.
For a free legal consultation, call (253) 238-2558
Can an Accident Be Removed From Your Record?
No, in most instances, a car accident cannot be removed from your record before the required retention period is over. If the collision was accurately reported, the Washington DOL is required to keep the incident on your driving record for at least five years.
However, you can request a copy of your record to review the details and challenge any errors or inaccuracies. For example, if a collision appears incorrectly on your record and is impacting your insurance premiums, you may be able to dispute this and have the details updated.
Our NextLaw lawyers can help you understand your rights and review your driving record to make sure it accurately reflects your driving history. If we find any issues, we can advise you on your next steps.
How to Reduce the Impact of a Car Accident on Your Record
While you cannot remove an accurately reported accident from your record, you may be able to minimize the impact it has.
In addition to reviewing your record and challenging errors, you can take the following steps:
- Avoid further incidents: Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, it’s always a good idea to avoid additional violations or traffic offenses to help keep your record clean.
- Complete a defensive driving course: Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who take this type of course, which may help to offset higher premiums.
- Speak to your provider: You can always discuss your options with your insurance provider to see if there’s anything that can be done to improve your premiums.
- Consider other insurers: Every provider assesses risk differently, and by comparing quotes, you may find a better alternative.
Your record is only there to track your driving history, not to determine who is at fault. But it can be frustrating when a collision from a couple of years ago is still impacting your insurance premiums.
Call NextLaw to discuss your options and learn more about how to move forward.
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How a Lawyer Can Help After a Car Accident
A car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, so you know where you stand after a collision. While they cannot get the accident removed from your driving or insurance records, an experienced attorney can review the information and offer advice on how to handle incorrect data appearing on your record.
At NextLaw, our attorneys can also support you through the claims process if you decide to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. We’ll review the details of the accident to help establish liability and estimate damages, while also handling all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.
With our guidance, you get all the answers to your questions regarding your driving record and can recover what you’re owed for any injuries, vehicle damage, or other losses.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Get Trusted Legal Advice From NextLaw
Trying to wrap your head around the many legal proceedings and official processes that follow a car accident can be difficult. A car accident attorney from NextLaw can help you understand exactly how long an accident stays on your record and how it might impact your premiums.
Our team is made up of highly experienced lawyers and former prosecutors who care about providing an authentic and tailored approach to every case and client. We take the time to understand your situation and will work with you to explore every option and get you the best possible outcome.
Call NextLaw today. Book a free consultation to discuss your car accident case, and we’ll answer any questions you may have.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form