Legal Insight into Driving Crimes in Washington State
Hit and Run (Attended)
Washington State law takes driving crimes like Hit and Run (Attended) very seriously. This crime happens when a driver leaves an accident with another occupied vehicle. When involved in an accident, one must provide their name, address, insurance information to the other driver. This is regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Failure to provide this information in an accident involved an occupied vehicle, consituted a Hit and Run (Attended). Conviction for this crime can result in hefty fines, loss of your driving license, and potential jail time. Therefore, it is vital to have the right driving crimes attorney on your side.
Hit and Run (Unattended)
Hit and Run (Unattended) involves leaving the scene of an accident without stopping when only property damage is incurred. This could be a another vehicle that is not occupied at the time of the accident. Other common incidents include hitting a barrier or a post. Even if no one is hurt, leaving the scene can still lead to serious consequences like fines and criminal charges. If you bolt from a crash scene in Washington State, even if it’s just property damage, the law won’t let you off easy – fines and criminal charges are on the table depending on how bad things got.
Reckless Driving
Washington State law defines Reckless Driving as operating a vehicle with willful and wanton disregard for safety. Acts like pushing the speed limit way too far and driving aggressively fall under this crime. Facing reckless driving charges can lead to significant fines, potential loss of your driving license, or even jail time. As a lawyer specializing in defending individuals accused of reckless driving, I actively understand the gravity of these charges. Our traffic crimes lawyer is committed to delivering the strongest defense possible to safeguard your rights and driving privileges.
Negligent Driving
Even though negligent driving isn’t as bad as reckless driving, it can still land you in hot water with the law and hike up your insurance rates. There is a difference between Negligent Driving in the 1st Degree and Negligent Driving in the 2nd Degree. Negligent Driving in the 1st Degree requires an element of alcohol or any drug, including marijuana. Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, on the other hand, does not have an element of alcohol and/or drugs.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Getting caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs—aka a DUI—in Washington State is a gross misdemeanor. Unlike most other gross misdemeanors on this page, a DUI comes with mandatory jail time, fine, license suspension, ignition interlock requirement, an evaluation and classes.
Contact us today to discuss your driving crimes with our criminal defense attorney (206) 771-4343
Summary Table of Driving Crimes in Washington State
| Driving Crime | Description | Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Attended) | Leaving the scene of a collision with others present | Maximum penalties include up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Also, a license suspension |
| Hit and Run (Unattended) | Leaving the scene of an accident with property damage only | Maximum penalties include up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. |
| Felony Hit and Run | Leaving the scene of a serious accident with injuries or fatalities | Significant fines, lengthy imprisonment, criminal record impact |
| Reckless Driving | Operating a vehicle with willful disregard for safety of persons and/or property | Maximum penalties include up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Also, a license suspension |
| Negligent Driving | Operating a vehicle in a manner that is both negligent and endangers or likely to endanger any persons or property, and exhibiting the effects of having consumed alcohol or any drugs | Maximum penalties include up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. |
| Driving Under the Influence (DUI) | Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs | Mandatory minimum fines and jail, license suspension, mandatory drug/alcohol treatment. |
| Vehicular Assault | Causing substantial bodily harm while operating a vehicle | Significant fines, imprisonment, lasting impact on criminal record |
Contact us today to discuss your driving crimes with our criminal defense attorney (206) 771-4343
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I’m involved in a Hit and Run accident?
If you are involved in an accident with another vehicle, at the very minimum, you are required to stop and exchange contact information with the other driver regardless who is at fault. A failure to stop and fulfill your duties can result in hit and run charges which will carry severe penalties for conviction.
2. How does Felony Hit and Run compared to Hit and Run?
Felony Hit and Run involves serious injuries or fatalities. Felony Hit and Run is a more severe offense and carries significant legal consequences compared to Hit and Run (Attended) or (Unattended).
3. How can I defend against a Reckless Driving charge?
Reach out to a skilled driving crimes lawyer who can delve into the details of your situation. You might beat the rap by poking holes in the evidence, showing you didn’t mean to do it, or that you were actually following all the road rules.
4. What factors contribute to a Negligent Driving charge?
Negligent Driving may result from actions like tailgating or failing to yield. The courts may consider factors such as weather conditions or road visibility.
5. Can I refuse a DUI test in Washington?
Washington has implied consent laws. Refusing a DUI test can lead to automatic license suspension. Consult with an attorney for advice tailored to your situation.
6. How can a law firm help with driving crime charges?
A law firm’s got your back when you’re up against driving crime charges, giving you the legal know-how, crafting a tough defense, and guiding you step by step to aim for the best outcome in light of your situation.
If you’re facing driving-related criminal charges in Seattle, Washington, it’s important to contact a criminal defense attorney who specializes in driving crimes as soon as possible. Dealing with the legal system can be daunting, and the consequences of a driving offense can be severe, affecting your license, livelihood, and freedom. Our driving crimes lawyer has extensive experience in handling a wide range of driving offenses, from DUIs to reckless driving. We actively understand Washington’s complex driving laws and dedicate ourselves to providing aggressive, knowledgeable, and personalized legal representation. Our goal is to protect your rights, minimize the impact of the charges, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Reach out to us for a consultation and expert legal support.
Call us today at (206) 771-4343 to speak to a knowledgeable driving crimes lawyer about your driving-related charges
