The proposed bill aims to enhance the protection of vulnerable users of public ways, such as pedestrians and cyclists, by establishing educational requirements for law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges regarding negligent driving incidents involving these individuals. It mandates the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission and the Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts to develop and provide educational classes and materials on negligent driving with vulnerable user victims. These educational programs must be implemented by July 1, 2027, for law enforcement and prosecutors, and by January 1, 2028, for judicial officers and judges.

Additionally, the bill introduces a presumption of negligence in tort actions against individuals who cause injury or death to vulnerable users while they are in designated safe areas, such as sidewalks or crosswalks. This presumption can be rebutted by the defendant. The legislation outlines the burden of proof for both plaintiffs and defendants in such cases and specifies the damages that a prevailing plaintiff may recover, including actual damages, statutory damages, and reasonable attorney fees. The bill also allows for punitive damages if the defendant has a history of injuring or killing multiple vulnerable road users. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.