A new legislative proposal, Senate Bill 5238, is advancing to the House with the aim of curbing reckless driving by expanding its definition.
FILE - The Washington State Capitol building is seen on the first day of the legislative session, Jan. 8, 2024, in Olympia, Wash. The bill seeks to classify driving 30 mph over the speed limit as reckless driving , a move that lawmakers believe will hold drivers accountable.
If you exceed the speed limit by 30 mph then you are automatically going to be charged with reckless driving," said Senator Ron Muzzall, the bill's sponsor and a former firefighter. Muzzall emphasized the personal impact of reckless driving, stating, "I’ve picked up the pieces, I’ve picked up the pieces of those guilty of exceeding the speed limit at high rates, but I’ve also picked up the pieces of the innocent victims. Currently, drivers caught speeding may receive a ticket or face a reckless driving charge, which must be proven in court. Trooper John Dattilo of the Washington State Patrol noted that some areas do not consider speed alone as reckless driving unless accompanied by other dangerous behaviors, such as unsafe lane changes or tailgating. The Washington State Patrol has reported an increase in reckless driving incidents, often resulting in fatal crashes. "This hopefully will create an extra layer of accountability that will maybe force them to deal with reality and choose not to do this," said Muzzall Reckless driving is classified as a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Under the proposed bill, offenders would also face a minimum one-month license suspension.
Fatal Crashes Speed Limit Penalties License Suspension Senate Bill 5238 Root Reckless Driving Washington State Patrol Accountability Local
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Alabama lawmakers advance bill that would make it harder to sue police who use excessive forceAlabama lawmakers are advancing a bill that would make it harder to sue police who use excessive or lethal force force
Read more »
Alabama lawmakers advance bill that would make it harder to sue police who use excessive forceAlabama lawmakers are advancing a bill that would make it harder to sue police who use excessive or lethal force force
Read more »
Group of GOP lawmakers unveil bill to put Trump’s face on a $250 dollar billAs Donald Trump rushes beyond the bounds of his authority to dismantle the U.S. government, courts are quickly catching up and putting his actions on hold. But, Rachel Maddow points out, whether he heeds the authority of the courts or decides to openly defy court orders will show whether or not the U.S. has ceased to be a democracy.
Read more »
Iowa’s Capitol fills with protesters as lawmakers consider bill removing gender identity protectionA 90-minute public hearing in the House on Thursday brought hundreds to the Capitol.
Read more »
GOP lawmakers propose legislation to feature Trump on new $250 billPresident Donald Trump could soon be featured on a $250 bill, as part of new legislation being drafted by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina.
Read more »
GOP lawmakers propose legislation to feature Trump on new $250 billPresident Donald Trump could soon be featured on a $250 bill, as part of new legislation being drafted by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina.
Read more »