Driving Crimes in Washington State – Legal Insights
Hit and Run (Attended)
Hit and Run (Attended) is a serious driving crime in Washington State. This crime happens when a driver bolts from the accident scene without sticking around, especially if there are others nearby. Getting busted for a hit and run isn’t just bad news, it’s wallet-draining fines, saying goodbye to your license, and even risking time behind bars.
Hit and Run (Unattended)
Hit and Run (Unattended) involves leaving the scene of an accident without stopping when only property damage is incurred. 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.
Felony Hit and Run
Felony Hit and Run in Washington State involves leaving the scene of an accident where there are serious injuries or fatalities. Getting hit with a felony Hit and Run charge in Washington is serious business – we’re talking massive fines, possible jail time for years, and it’s a black mark on your record that won’t fade easily.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is defined by Washington State 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. When reckless driving lands you in hot water, you’re looking at a fat fine, the risk of losing your license, or even winding up in jail.
Negligent Driving
Negligent driving refers to operating a vehicle in a careless or negligent manner, potentially endangering others on the road. 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.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
In Washington State, getting caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs—aka a DUI—is seen as a major road offense. If you’re caught drunk driving, you could be slapped with hefty fines, lose your license, need to take required courses and might even end up behind bars.
Vehicular Assault
Vehicular Assault occurs when a person causes substantial bodily harm while operating a vehicle, often in conjunction with reckless or impaired driving. Driving recklessly or while impaired can lead to jail time and a criminal record that follows you.
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 |
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. Felony Hit and Run involves more serious injuries or deaths, so it has harsher punishments than other types.
Felony Hit and Run involves serious injuries or fatalities. It is a more severe offense with 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 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. Factors such as weather conditions or road visibility may also be considered.
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. If you’re hit with a Vehicular Assault charge, your best bet is to find a skilled lawyer pronto.
Seek legal representation immediately. But a lawyer can help you understand the charges, build your defense, and guide you through the legal process.
7. 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.
