Washington Traffic Laws

Most of us know what it’s like to receive a traffic ticket. Even the most careful of motorists can make mistakes if they haven’t familiarized themselves with Washington traffic laws. A bit of knowledge can help you avoid paying hefty fines and having to appear in traffic court.

This article examines and explains traffic laws and rules of the road in Washington State. It also provides links to the Washington online vehicle code, statutes on common traffic violations, and Washington’s driving manuals.

If the police recently issued you a traffic ticket and aren’t sure what to do next, contact a Washington traffic ticket attorney. We’ve also included links to other related FindLaw articles at the bottom of the page.

Common Traffic Infractions in Washington

The police cannot pull you over unless the have reasonable suspicion that you’ve committed a crime or an infraction. This includes traffic violations, such as driving above the speed limit or texting while driving.

Some of the other common traffic violations in the state of Washington include:

• Not stopping at a crosswalk
• Failure to stop for an emergency vehicle
• DUI/DWI
• Not abiding by the right-of-way
• Entering a private road or driveway
• Failure to stop for a school bus
• Overtaking another vehicle in a no-passing zone
• Leaving the scene of a car accident
• Failure to mind bicyclists on a bike path
• Failure to drive the minimum speed on a busy road or highway
• Driving in the opposite direction down a one-way street

In addition to these minor traffic offenses, Washington also has strict laws regarding vehicular assault and vehicular homicide.

Appearances in Traffic Court

Most traffic violations do not require you to appear in court. You can pay the fine online or in person at the municipal court. There are some violations, however, that will require a court appearance. These include DUI offenses and any violation that causes a fatality.

If you must go before a judge, consider meeting with a Washington traffic ticket attorney or criminal defense lawyer, depending on your situation.  Often, there isn’t much time between the police officer issuing you a ticket and your initial appearance. Some traffic offenses can lead to fines, possible jail time, and a suspension of your driver’s license. You don’t want to handle your case alone if there’s a chance you’ll go to jail or lose your driving privileges.

Washington Traffic Tickets – Helpful Resources

For general information on Washington State’s traffic laws, consult the following two resources:

• Washington Drivers’ Guides
• Title 46. Motor Vehicles

You should also familiarize yourself with the Revised Code of Washington and check for updated traffic laws. Below are links to some of the most common traffic laws in Washington.

Drinking & Driving Violations

Driving under the influence (RCW Section 46.61.502)

Driving Without a License / With a Suspended License

Driving without a license – misdemeanor (RCW section 46.20.005)

Driving without a license – traffic infraction (RCW Section 46.20.015)

Driving Without Insurance / With Insufficient Insurance

Liability insurance or other financial responsibility required (RCW Section 46.30.020)

Driving Without Registration / With Expired Registration

Certificates required to operate and sell vehicles (RCW Section 46.12.010)

Illegal U-Turn

"U" turns (RCW Section 46.61.295)

Leaving the Scene of an Accident / Hit & Run

Accidents – reports (RCW Section 46.52)

Mechanical Violations

Vehicle lighting and other equipment (RCW Section 46.37)

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving – penalty (RCW Section 46.61.500)

Running a Red Light / Stop Sign

Obedience to and required traffic control devices (RCW Section 46.61.050)

Seat Belt / Child Restraint Violations

Child passenger restraint systems (RCW Section 46.37.505)

Seat belts and shoulder harnesses (RCW Section 46.37.510)

Speeding

Speed restrictions: basic rules and maximum speed limits (RCW Section 46.61.400)

Unlawful Vehicle Modifications

Vehicle lighting and other equipment (RCW Chapter 46.37)

If the local authorities pull you over for any of these infractions, expect to receive a traffic ticket. Sometimes the police issue a warning instead of a ticket, but there’s no guarantee this will happen. The best way to avoid a ticket is to abide by the local laws and avoid being stopped by a police vehicle altogether.

Disclaimer: State laws change frequently due to new legislation, higher court rulings, etc. While FindLaw strives to provide readers with the most current information, consult a local traffic violations lawyer to confirm Washington laws.

Facing the Loss of Your Driver’s License? Consult an Experienced Traffic Ticket Attorney 

You may not need a Washington traffic ticket attorney if you receive a minor ticket after a routine traffic stop. If a law enforcement officer also charges you with a crime during the stop, having a criminal defense attorney on your side becomes a necessity.

Contact a Washington traffic ticket lawyer for assistance or if you have additional questions about Washington’s traffic laws. You can also browse the Washington Department of Transportation site for general information on local traffic safety ordinances.

If you violate one of the state’s driving laws and cause a traffic death, you may face severe criminal penalties. In this case, consulting with a Washington criminal defense attorney is advisable. With so much at risk, you don’t want to handle it alone.

Related FindLaw Resources

• Washington Car Accident Compensation Laws
• Washington Law on Mopeds and Scooters
• Washington Car Accident Report Basics