Driving Crimes Defense
Traffic Crimes in Washington State
Unlike a simple speeding ticket, some driving crimes require serious consideration as they can lead to jail time and license suspension. If you’re pulled over and ticketed for a traffic crime, it’s crucial to have legal assistance.
Don’t assume that paying the fine resolves the issue when the citation is labeled “criminal traffic” because you’ll have to appear in court.
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What Steps Should I take After Receiving a Ticket?
Negligent Driving in the First Degree
This can encompass actions like speeding and running red lights, typically considered a misdemeanor with penalties of up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Reckless Driving
Involving actions that blatantly disregard road safety, reckless driving, such as excessive speeding, can lead to up to one year in jail and fines of up to $5,000 upon conviction.
Hit and Run
After an accident, it’s your duty to stop and provide contact information. Failing to do so can result in hit and run charges, carrying severe penalties.
Defending Against Criminal Traffic Crimes
If you face arrest and criminal charges, you need a skilled representative to fight for your rights in court. Our attorneys have a long-standing commitment to excellent representation with over years of criminal defense experience, offering unmatched representation.
Negligent Driving in the First Degree
To be charged with this offense, two key elements must be proven. First, it must be shown that the person operated a motor vehicle negligently and, in doing so, endangered or was likely to endanger individuals or property. Second, the driver must display the effects of consuming alcohol or an illegal drug.
“Exhibiting the effects of alcohol” implies having the odor of alcohol on one’s breath or demonstrating through speech, appearance, behavior, lack of coordination, or other indications that liquor has been consumed. In addition, there must be evidence that the person was in possession of alcohol or in close proximity to a container that recently contained alcohol.
Reckless Driving
In accordance with Washington law, reckless driving is described as the act of operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of individuals or property.
Courts have broadly interpreted this statute to encompass situations where an individual willingly puts themselves at risk. The penalties for reckless driving may include up to 364 days of imprisonment and a fine of $5,000. It’s important to note that reckless driving is an arrestable offense, and many individuals detained by the police for this violation are handcuffed and taken into custody. When law enforcement alleges instances of racing or “road rage,” they often issue reckless driving citations. Individuals convicted of reckless driving must acquire SR-22 or “high-risk” insurance.
Reckless Driving Charges Due to Excessive Speed
Numerous reckless driving charges in Washington are grounded in allegations of excessive speed. It is not uncommon for the Washington State Patrol to apprehend drivers for reckless driving when they exceed 90 or 100 MPH.
To determine whether high-speed travel constitutes reckless driving, juries often consider factors such as weather conditions, lighting conditions, the type of vehicle involved, and the volume of other vehicles on the road.
Schedule an Appointment
Contacting a lawyer as early as possible in the case can make all the difference in the outcome.
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If you wish to discuss your case with our firm, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We offers free consultations for criminal cases, providing you with honest opinions and answers to your questions. Learn more about how a criminal defense attorney can assist you or your family member.