After a crash, taking care of your health is the priority, but navigating the car accident injury claims process while recovering can quickly become overwhelming. Between medical visits, insurance paperwork, and adjuster calls, it’s easy to feel anxious that you’re missing a step.
Many people ask:
- What do I need to do after an accident?
- What documents should I be saving?
- What coverage might apply?
- What if the insurance company makes a low offer?
Fortunately, Washington State has a relatively straightforward process that allows injured drivers to pursue compensation after a collision. Below, we break it down into five steps, from reporting the crash to finalizing your settlement. You’ll learn what to do, what to expect, and when to speak with an Everett car accident lawyer.
Step 1: Get Medical Treatment and Gather Records Early
Your medical records form the foundation of your car crash insurance claim. Insurance companies use them to evaluate your injuries and treatment costs. Start saving documentation right away, including:
- Hospital discharge notes and doctor visit summaries;
- Imaging results (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans);
- Records from physical therapy or chiropractic care;
- Prescription lists;
- Receipts for out-of-pocket costs and co-pays;
- Mileage logs for appointments; and
- Employer letters confirming missed work.
Even if your injuries feel minor, it’s essential to see a doctor. Delaying treatment can give insurers a reason to challenge your claim for injury compensation. Everything you save helps support your case.
Step 2: Report the Crash and Confirm the Paperwork
Washington law mandates that you report an accident if anyone was injured or if property damage totals $1,000 or more.
If police respond to the scene, they’ll typically file a report. You can request a copy from the local department or Washington State Patrol. Getting a copy is crucial, since insurers often ask for it early on.
Adjusters use reports to:
- Confirm the crash date, time, and location;
- Identify involved individuals and vehicles;
- Review initial statements; and
- Note if citations were issued.
If no police responded to the crash, you must file a Vehicle Collision Report within four days. The form is available through the Department of Licensing website.
Consult with a lawyer if you’re unsure whether anyone filed a report or if you believe it contains errors. Clarifying facts early can prevent problems later.
Step 3: File the Car Crash Insurance Claim
After you’ve reported the crash and begun medical treatment, the next step is opening a claim with the appropriate insurer. This step often involves two claims:
- One with the at-fault driver’s insurer; and
- One with your own coverage, such as PIP or UM/UIM.
An adjuster will be assigned to evaluate your losses and determine what the insurer is willing to pay. The insurer may ask you to provide:
- The police or collision report,
- Photos of the scene and vehicle damage,
- Medical bills and provider notes,
- Proof of income (pay stubs or employer letter), and
- Auto repair estimates.
The adjuster might also request a recorded statement. While this may seem routine, be cautious, as what you say can be used later to challenge your account or reduce your compensation. If you’re unsure how to respond or feel pressured, speak with a car accident attorney before proceeding.
Be aware: Washington law gives you three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. But building a solid car crash insurance claim—documenting losses, securing evidence, and negotiating a fair settlement—takes time. Starting early gives you the best chance at a full medical and financial recovery.
Step 4: Review the Insurance Offer Before You Respond
When the review wraps up, the insurer may make a settlement offer. This is a critical moment. Carefully evaluate the offer before accepting it. Once you sign, the claim is closed. You can’t reopen it later, even if new expenses arise or your condition worsens.
Make sure the offer covers all of your losses, including:
- Medical bills;
- Lost income;
- Pain, suffering, and long-term effects of your injury;
- Out-of-pocket expenses; and
- Reimbursements owed to your PIP provider or health insurer.
Most initial offers are low. You have the right to negotiate or reject the offer. Do not feel pressured to accept the first number an insurer provides.
Contact an attorney if the insurer denies your claim or negotiations break down. A Washington car accident lawyer can help:
- Review whether the offer is fair,
- Identify any damages the insurer overlooked,
- Handle negotiations on your behalf, and
- Prepare a lawsuit if necessary.
Bottom line: Take your time. A careful review now can make a big difference in the compensation you walk away with.
Step 5: Finalize the Settlement and Close Your Claim
When a fair car accident settlement has been reached, whether through negotiation or legal help, it’s time to make it official.
The insurance company will issue a settlement release form, confirming that you are accepting the agreed-upon amount and closing your claim. Before you sign it, review the terms carefully, even if you think you know what they include. Consider consulting a lawyer to verify that the agreement includes all necessary details and to confirm that:
- The total settlement amount is correct,
- All outstanding medical bills or liens (including reimbursement to your health insurance or PIP provider) have been included, and
- You are not giving up rights to future claims you may still need to bring.
Signing the release officially closes your claim and prevents you from reopening it later. Payment typically follows shortly after, either by check or direct deposit.
Finalizing the settlement is a crucial step. Before finalizing, make sure the agreement reflects your full recovery costs, including not just what happened but what may still lie ahead. A well-handled settlement can help bring closure, so you can focus on your recovery without worrying about unresolved costs or paperwork.
Questions About the Claim Process?
Understanding how the Washington car accident injury claims process moves from treatment and paperwork to settlement is the first step in taking action to recover the compensation you deserve. However, not every case goes smoothly.
At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we help people throughout Washington protect their rights after an accident. Whether you’re still in treatment, reviewing an offer, or facing delays, we’re here to help. Our team has over 40 years of experience fighting to help injured victims, and we’re prepared to fight for you.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Washington car accident attorney.
