This bill amends existing laws regarding reckless driving in Washington State, specifically addressing cases involving excessive speed. It establishes that a person is guilty of reckless driving if they drive with willful or wanton disregard for safety or exceed the posted speed limit by more than 30 miles per hour. The penalties for reckless driving are set as a gross misdemeanor, with potential imprisonment for up to 364 days and fines not exceeding $5,000. Additionally, the bill mandates a minimum 30-day suspension of driving privileges for those convicted of reckless driving, with provisions for credit towards this suspension if the conviction stems from prior related charges.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a probationary period of 150 days following the suspension, during which individuals must operate vehicles equipped with an intelligent speed assistance device. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in a traffic infraction, and any moving violations during probation will lead to additional suspensions. The bill also specifies that the obligation to use the speed assistance device does not absolve individuals from responsibility for safe driving. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2026, and will expire on January 1, 2029, with subsequent sections taking effect on January 1, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 46.61.500