Motor vehicle accidents are a common occurrence in Seattle, Tacoma, and across Western Washington State. Many crashes are completely avoidable, caused by drunk drivers or distracted drivers. Whatever the cause, car accidents are a major safety and economic issue for the community.

Get information on car crashes from the Police Departments in the Seattle-Tacoma region

The Seattle Police Department offers information on accidents, and also provides information on obtaining a police report. You can also submit a public disclosure request to obtain information from the department.

The Tacoma Police Department offers a link to request a police report or a vehicle collision report.

These departments are a good resource to get information after a car crash.

Washington State's Department of Licensing provides information on traffic laws and licensing and insurance requirements.

When someone is injured in a Seattle or Tacoma car crash, what needs to happen next?

In an injury accident, it is crucial to get appropriate medical treatment, regardless of the financial cost.

The major hospitals in the area include:

Harborview Medical Center - Seattle;

Swedish Hospital - Seattle;

University of Washington Medical Center - Seattle;

Virginia Mason Medical Center - Seattle;

Multi Care Tacoma General Hospital;

St. Joseph Medical Center - Tacoma.

As soon as possible, an injured person should contact their insurance company to find out medical treatment is covered under their insurance policy.

When a car accident is serious or fatal, it is crucial to find a Seattle or Tacoma auto accident lawyer

When a crash is serious or a death occurs in Seattle or Tacoma, the next step is to find an experienced Seattle - Tacoma personal injury attorney to start the financial recovery process by launching an insurance claim. Major injury or wrongful death claims are complicated and difficult to manage. Having a Seattle accident lawyer on board is a great relief to injured people, or to the family left behind when an accident proves fatal.