What is a WSP Collision Report and Why You Need It

Definition and Purpose of a WSP Collision Report

A WSP Collision Report is an official document required for car accidents in Washington State. It is filed with the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and serves several important purposes:

• Legal Requirement: The report is mandatory if there are injuries or if damage exceeds $1,000.
• Insurance Claims: It provides essential information for filing insurance claims, helping to establish liability and damages.
• Statistical Data: The report contributes to state and local data collection on traffic incidents, aiding in safety improvements.

When a WSP Collision Report is Required

There are specific circumstances under which a WSP Collision Report must be filed:

• Officer-Investigated Accidents: If a police officer responds to the scene and determines that there are injuries or significant damage, they will complete the report (WSP-161).
• Citizen-Filed Reports: If no officer is present, drivers must submit a report online within four days if there are injuries or damages exceeding $1,000.

Key Components of a WSP Collision Report

The WSP Collision Report contains critical information that is vital for various stakeholders:

• Date, Time, and Location: Details about when and where the accident occurred.
• Involved Parties: Information about drivers, passengers, and vehicles involved in the incident.
• Insurance Details: Contact and policy information for insurance companies.
• Officer's Narrative: A summary of the officer's observations, including diagrams and contributing factors such as speeding or traffic violations.
• Injury and Damage Information: Documentation of any injuries or fatalities, along with property damage assessments.

How to Obtain a WSP Collision Report

To obtain a copy of a WSP Collision Report, follow these steps:

• Online Request: Access the WSP's online system to submit a request for a copy of the report.
• Phone Inquiry: Contact the Collision Records Section at 360-570-2355 for assistance.
• In-Person Request: Visit a local WSP office to request a copy directly.

Filling Out the Request for Copy of Collision Report

When completing the request form, ensure you provide accurate information:

• Personal Information: Include your name, address, and contact details.
• Incident Details: Provide the date, time, and location of the accident.
• Report Number: If available, include the report number for quicker processing.

Who Uses the WSP Collision Report?

Various parties may need access to a WSP Collision Report:

• Insurance Companies: To process claims and determine liability.
• Legal Professionals: For use in court cases or settlements.
• Involved Parties: Drivers and passengers may need it for personal records or legal purposes.

Legal Implications of the WSP Collision Report

The WSP Collision Report can have significant legal implications:

• Evidence in Court: The report may serve as evidence in legal disputes regarding fault or damages.
• Insurance Liability: It can influence insurance liability determinations and settlements.
• Traffic Violations: The report may document any traffic violations that occurred during the incident.

Examples of WSP Collision Report Usage

Here are some scenarios illustrating the use of a WSP Collision Report:

• Insurance Claims: After a collision, a driver submits the report to their insurance company to expedite the claims process.
• Legal Proceedings: A lawyer uses the report to build a case for a client injured in an accident.
• Traffic Safety Analysis: Local government agencies analyze reports to identify accident hotspots and improve road safety measures.