At a glance:
- Washington State saw 75,941 car crashes in 2023, a reduction of more than 26% from 2022.
- There was a record high of 694 fatal crashes, despite fewer overall incidents.
- The percentage of crashes involving drunk driving (6%) or a teenage driver (14%) did not meaningfully change.
Every crash represents not just statistics, but real people and real families—often impacted in life-altering ways. This annual report is our way of supporting and empowering our community with information.
We believe that understanding these trends helps us to fully appreciate and better handle the risks of driving. It reminds us to be more prudent and more defensive behind the wheel—even when others choose not to be.
Keep our collision checklist handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out for quick, confidential guidance.
2023 Washington State Car Crash Summary
The past year’s trends were cause for optimism, as total crashes and total injury crashes fell markedly from 2022 to 2023.
However, the crashes that did occur were slightly more likely to be severe. An injury or fatality occurred in 31% of crashes, compared to 29% in 2022. Most concerningly, fatal crashes increased both in count (694, up from 690) and as a percentage of total crashes (0.9%, up from 0.7%).
All data come from the WSDOT Crash Data Portal and are subject to adjustment by the agency.
Total crashes decreased over 26%
To begin with a bright spot, Washington saw a 26% drop to 75,941 total recorded crashes in 2023.
This is easily the lowest figure in the state’s current data set, which goes back to 2014.
Fatal crashes increased 1%
Despite the decrease in total crashes, a record 694 of them caused a fatality. That’s an increase of about 1% from the 690 fatal crashes observed in 2022.
This means about 0.9% of all crashes in 2023 were fatal, compared with under 0.7% in 2022.
If someone close to you was involved in a fatal collision, we offer our sincere condolences first and foremost. While nothing in the world can turn back the hands of time, we can offer compassionate and tireless legal support after such a tragic loss.
Serious injuries increased 6%
Suspected serious injuries rose to a record-high 2,822, roughly a 6% increase over the previous year’s 2,653. The proportion of crashes with serious injuries rose by nearly half, from 2.6% to 3.7% of all crashes.
The legal and financial repercussions of a major collision injury can play out over months or even years. Our team is here to fight for your rightful compensation while you focus on recovering and readjusting to regular life.
Lesser injuries decreased nearly 26%
Crashes with minor or possible injuries dropped to 20,033, down almost 26% from 26,955 in 2022, and in line with the drop in total crashes.
Keep in mind that injuries often emerge later—potentially multiple days following a collision. It’s essential to get checked by a doctor even if you don’t suspect an injury. Remember: if it’s not documented, then it may not be compensated, either.
Non-injury crashes remained the norm
In 2023, 52,392 crashes caused no apparent injuries. That figure is consistent with the overall decrease in crashes.
However, non-injury crashes accounted for about 69% of all incidents, a lower percentage than the previous year’s 71%. This indicates that, among those crashes that did occur, the injury rate rose to 31% (vs. 29%).
Even though most crashes aren’t severe, insurance and liability can still be complicated and overwhelming. Our auto accident specialists will navigate these stressful matters on your behalf.
Your trusted partner after a collision
At Bridge Law, we help Washingtonians win compensation, deal with insurance and medical challenges, and move forward with life.
If you or someone you care about has suffered personal or financial harm in a collision, then we’re here to offer you effective representation and a compassionate ear.
Reach out today to learn more about your options for fast, maximum compensation.
This article is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice.
