When must you report a car accident to the police in Washington?

In Washington, it is required to report a car accident to the police when there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000. This regulation is in place to ensure that serious incidents are handled properly and to facilitate any necessary investigation. Reporting in these situations helps document the incident, allows law enforcement to assess the scene, and provides a record that can be vital for insurance claims and legal matters.

The threshold of $1,000 for property damage is significant as it ensures that the most substantial impacts resulting from a collision are officially recorded. This helps protect all parties involved and assists in any potential claims or legal proceedings that may arise from the accident.