No Fees Unless We Win
No Fees Unless We Win
personal injury lawyer
Knowing how to get a police report for a car accident is one of the most important steps you can take after a crash in Washington. Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or considering legal action, this document provides critical details—like what happened, who was involved, and who may be at fault. At Colburn Law – Accident and Injury Lawyers, we’ve guided countless people throughout Washington, from the streets of Seattle to neighborhoods in Tacoma, through this process. It can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easier every step of the way.
No Fees Unless We Win
According to RCW 46.52.030, Washington law requires drivers involved in a collision resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 must file a police report. These reports serve several important purposes:
A police report provides an objective account of what happened and can support your insurance claim or legal case. It also helps to know when Washington law requires you to provide identification during interactions with law enforcement.
It’s worth noting that a police report is different from the exchange-of-information form officers might hand out at the scene. Those forms only list the basics—names, contact info, and insurance providers—while a full police report includes diagrams, witness statements, and the responding officer’s notes.
In Washington, the best place to request your police report is the Washington State Patrol (WSP). Their Collision Records Section is the primary resource when learning how to get a police report for a car accident in the state. Whether you were involved in a major highway crash or a neighborhood fender-bender, this office maintains the official documentation you’ll need.
Here’s how to get yours:
Collision Records Section
PO Box 47381
Olympia, WA 98504-7381
You can also request a report in person at the local law enforcement agency that responded to your crash. For example, if the Seattle Police Department handled the accident, you may be able to retrieve the report through their public disclosure portal.
Colburn Law is here to help. Get the justice and compensation you deserve—serving Seattle and all of Washington!
It can take anywhere from 3 to 14 business days, depending on the circumstances. Some reports are processed quickly, while others may take longer, especially if the incident involved serious injuries.
To keep things moving:
Delays can also happen if the report is being reviewed or revised. For instance, when there’s an ongoing investigation or conflicting witness statements, the filing process can be slowed down.
Wondering whether your insurance company needs the report right away? Some insurers will begin their evaluation without it, but may delay payout until they review the document. It’s always smart to request it sooner rather than later.
To track down your report, you’ll need to give the WSP some key details. The more complete your request, the better your chances of a quick turnaround. Be ready to provide the full names of everyone involved in the crash, along with the date and time it occurred. Include the specific location of the accident or the nearest major intersection if the exact address isn’t known. Share any identifying details about the vehicles, such as make, model, or license plate numbers. If you were issued a case or incident number, adding that to your request can be especially helpful.
If you don’t have every piece of information, that’s okay—submit whatever details you do have. Your name, whether as a driver, passenger, or witness, may be enough to assist staff in locating the report efficiently.
Yes, most requests require a small fee. As of now, the Washington State Patrol charges $10.50 per report. Payment can usually be made by check, money order, or credit card, depending on how you choose to submit the request. Be sure to verify the accepted payment methods with WSP beforehand to avoid delays. There are no fee waivers for accident victims, even if your claim is ongoing. If you’re requesting reports for multiple incidents, such as a chain-reaction crash involving several vehicles, you’ll need to pay for each report individually.
Tip: Keep your receipt. In some cases, insurance companies might reimburse the cost if the report is submitted along with your claim paperwork. It’s another reason why staying organized can make a real difference when you’re navigating the claims process.
Mistakes happen, but there are ways to try and fix them. If something doesn’t look right on your police report, reach out to the officer who wrote it. Explain the issue clearly, and be prepared to submit a written statement outlining your concerns. Include supporting materials like photos, contact information for witnesses, or medical documentation related to injuries. Be as specific as possible when presenting your request, since vague complaints are much less likely to result in action. Minor typos can often be corrected without much trouble.
Concerns about fault are more complex; the officer may not revise their original narrative, but they might agree to add a note clarifying your perspective. Keep records of everything you send and follow up if needed. It helps to remain polite yet persistent and to follow up in writing so there’s a clear trail of communication.
In some cases, no report is filed at the scene, especially if the damage seems minor or officers weren’t called. That doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
You can file a Civilian Collision Report through the Washington State Patrol within four days of the crash if:
Failing to report may affect your insurance claim, so don’t wait. It’s better to submit the report yourself than risk delays or denials later on.
At Colburn Law – Accident and Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped countless Washington residents take the right steps after a crash. Getting your police report is just the beginning. Whether you’re dealing with delayed insurance responses, rising medical costs, or just trying to understand your legal options, we’re ready to help.
Call our Car Accident Attorneys – 206-823-4953 today for a free consultation.
Greg Colburn’s path to personal injury law is rooted in personal experience. After a devastating fall left him in a wheelchair for two years, he took on insurance companies and legal obstacles to win his own case. That journey inspired him to fight for others facing similar challenges. Today, Greg is dedicated to helping injury victims hold negligent parties accountable and secure the justice they deserve.
Years of Experience: 20 years
Super Lawyers Profile: Greg Colburn
Client Reviews
If you only contact one lawyer after an accident, I would tell you to contact Greg Colburn.
What can I say – Greg put in a vast amount of effort to accomplish what I thought would be an impossible feat. He was able to get the result I wanted and the settlement I could have only dreamed of – If you only contact one lawyer after an accident, I would tell you to contact Greg Colburn and you wont be sorry!!!! Thank you so very much.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney, Greg Colburn who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a Washington Personal Injury Attorney.
Key Takeaways Washington drivers must adjust speed and driving behavior for icy roads, including black ice. Sliding on black ice does not automatically eliminate...
Key Takeaways Washington requires a police report only when a crash causes injury, death, or notable property damage. Calling 911 and legally reporting a...
Key Takeaways Insurers refuse whiplash claims over fault, causation, treatment timing, or evidence gaps. Delayed symptoms or normal imaging do not disprove a whiplash...
Key Takeaways Call 911 immediately when injuries appear, even minor ones, since adrenaline often masks pain for hours. Washington requires drivers to exchange information...
We will come to your home, a coffee shop, or your hospital room, whichever works best for you. We’ll discuss your legal options, and if we should decide to move forward, we will offer our services on a contingency-fee basis.
call us 206-919-3215
Message Us 
Call Us