Car Inspection Laws In Washington

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The car inspection laws in Washington have recently changed. Even though there is no longer any routine inspection requirement for vehicles registered in the state, specific inspections may be required in special situations. Certain vehicles must also meet the state’s emissions law. 

Motorists in Seattle, WA, who are not aware of these changes may be confused about their legal obligations going forward. It’s important for drivers to understand these laws to avoid penalties and liability in the event of a crash. 

A Seattle car accident lawyer from Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can address any questions you may have, as well as protect your interests if you do experience a crash. 

Understanding inspection laws can help you stay compliant and can impact your liability if you’re involved in an accident—this is where legal support becomes critical. Contact us today at (206) 727 4000 for a free consultation. 

How Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After A Car Accident In Seattle, WA

Car crashes happen every day in Seattle, Washington, but there is nothing routine or ordinary about the harm they can cause you and your loved ones. A skilled Seattle car accident attorney at Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can help ensure you are pursuing the full amount of damages you deserve if another person’s carelessness led to your crash.

When you hire us, we can:

• Investigate the cause of your accident
• Determine who is liable
• Leverage our experience in recovering millions of dollars in compensation for our clients on your behalf
• Empower you to understand your options and pursue a result that aligns with your needs and goals
• Represent you at both the negotiating table and in court

Our award-winning law firm was named the “Best Personal Injury Law Firm” in Washington by AI Legal Awards, and we have over three decades of experience helping people like you who have suffered injuries in auto accidents. 

Recovering following a car accident can be a long and difficult process. However, having a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer to support you can alleviate your stress and increase your odds of obtaining a successful outcome.

Call our Seattle personal injury attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.

No Routine Vehicle Inspections Required In Washington

As of 2020, Washington no longer requires motorists to take their cars in for routine inspections. Before 2020, drivers would need to take their vehicles in for emissions testing before they could renew their vehicle registrations. This requirement was lifted after it was determined that the state’s air quality had improved enough to no longer require regular vehicle tests.

Moreover, Washington does not require regular safety inspections of vehicles. This places the burden of ensuring a vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive squarely on the owner. A vehicle’s owner could face legal repercussions if they drive or allow their vehicle to be driven with defective tires or other mechanical issues.

When Inspections Are Required

There are still certain situations where the Washington State Police will need to perform an inspection of a vehicle’s identification number (VIN). These scenarios include when you:

• Rebuild a salvage vehicle
• Build or operate a homemade vehicle
• Drive your vehicle after it has been reported stolen
• Possess a vehicle over which there is a dispute of ownership 
• Own a car that does not have a VIN

If your vehicle fits into any of these categories, you will need to contact the Washington State Police to schedule an inspection. You will not be able to obtain a license plate and registration for your vehicle absent an inspection, if one is necessary.

Emissions Standards

Although Washington discontinued its emissions inspection requirement in 2020, vehicles must still comply with the state’s Clean Car Law. This requires certain vehicles to meet the emissions standards for vehicles, which apply to new cars as well as certain used vehicles.

Under the Clean Car Law, cars and trucks that are of the 2008 model year or older, passenger vans or buses with a gross vehicular weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more, or vehicles that are transferred as part of a divorce or inheritance do not need to satisfy the Clean Car Law to be registered.

Penalties For Failing To Comply With Inspection Laws

Drivers who operate a vehicle without proper registration can face fines and jail time. This applies whether the driver fails to get a VIN inspection or their vehicle does not meet the Clean Car Law.

Contact Our Seattle Car Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation

The aftermath of a car accident can become more complicated if a driver hasn’t followed these car inspection laws. If you suffer a traffic accident in Seattle, turn to the seasoned team at Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Our Seattle car accident attorneys can determine who was liable and how much compensation you’re entitled to under Washington law. 

Don’t wait to take the first step toward protecting your future. Contact our firm to request a free, no-obligation case review with us today.