The bill amends RCW 46.61.500 to redefine reckless driving, specifying that a person is guilty of reckless driving if they drive a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for safety or if they intentionally exceed the posted speed limit by more than 30 miles per hour. The penalties for reckless driving are also updated, establishing it as a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a person's driving license will be suspended for at least 30 days upon conviction, with provisions for credit towards suspension time if the reckless driving charge stems from prior violations related to driving under the influence.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of reckless driving with prior offenses within seven years must install an ignition interlock device on all vehicles they operate. This requirement applies specifically if the reckless driving conviction originated from charges related to driving under the influence. The legislation aims to enhance road safety by imposing stricter penalties and requirements for repeat offenders, thereby addressing the dangers associated with reckless driving behaviors.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.61.500