How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Record in Washington?

How long does an accident stay on your record in Washington? The length of time depends on the severity of the accident, whether you were at fault, and what kind of record is being referenced. Understanding how Washington tracks these incidents can help you manage the fallout and make informed decisions moving forward.

How Long Do Accidents Stay on Your Driving Record in Washington?

In Washington, accidents typically stay on your official driving record for five years from the date of the collision. 

This includes accidents where:

• You were at fault
• The accident involved injuries
• There was property damage
• A collision report was filed

The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) keeps this information for law enforcement and insurance companies. Even if you were not ticketed or charged with a traffic offense, the accident itself can still appear on your record.

If you were convicted of a traffic violation related to the accident, like DUI or reckless driving, that conviction can stay on your record for longer, often seven to ten years or more, depending on the offense.

Insurance Records vs. State Records

There’s a difference between what the DOL keeps on file and what your insurance company tracks. Insurance companies use their own claims data and may keep an accident on your insurance history for three to five years, even if the state record clears earlier.

If you were found at fault, your premiums might increase—and they can stay elevated for several years. Not-at-fault accidents usually have less impact, but they can still be noted in your file.

Some insurers use Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) reports to track your claims history, and these records can go back up to seven years.

Can You Remove an Accident From Your Record?

In most cases, no. Washington does not allow drivers to expunge or erase accident entries from their official record before the five-year period is up.

However, you can:

• Request a copy of your driving abstract from the DOL to see what’s listed
• Correct factual errors (such as wrong dates or vehicle information)
• Challenge inaccuracies through the DOL or your insurer

If your record shows a traffic ticket that was later dismissed, you can usually submit proof to the DOL to have it corrected. But an actual collision will generally stay until the five-year term expires.

Why Accident Records Matter

Having an accident on your record in Washington can affect more than just your insurance bill.

It may also impact:

• Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs): Employers may disqualify applicants based on recent accidents.
• Rideshare eligibility: Companies like Uber and Lyft often review driving history when evaluating drivers.
• Job applications: Some employers check motor vehicle reports for any driving-related position.
• License suspensions: Multiple accidents or infractions can result in license suspension or revocation under Washington’s habitual offender laws.

In Seattle, traffic jams and parking challenges raise the chances of small accidents. So, staying alert and driving defensively is your best way to stay safe.

How to Minimize the Impact of an Accident on Your Record

You can’t erase an accident, but you can reduce its consequences:

• Take a defensive driving course: While it won’t remove the accident, some insurers offer discounts for course completion.
• Shop around for insurance: After an accident, different carriers may treat your risk level differently. Getting quotes can save money.
• Avoid further infractions: Traffic violations alongside an accident will amplify its impact. Keep your record clean post-accident.
• Accident forgiveness: Some policies offer accident forgiveness after a set number of claim-free years.

Your record won’t stay blemished forever, but careless follow-up driving can reset the clock. Drive cautiously, especially if you’re already carrying a mark.

Drive Smart to Keep Your Record Clean

While an accident can remain on your Washington driving record for up to five years, its impact doesn’t have to follow you forever. By understanding how accident records work, you can take steps to reduce insurance penalties, protect your job prospects, and avoid additional infractions. 

If you’ve been injured in an accident or have questions about your record, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Seattle personal injury lawyer. 

Contact an Experienced Seattle Car Accident Attorney For Help With Your Claim

If you’ve been injured in Seattle, WA, and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Contact our legal team and schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer today. We proudly serve King County in Washington and it’s surrounding areas. Visit our law office at:

Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
2101 4th Ave 1030
Seattle, WA 98121
206 727 4000
Hours: Open 24/7