Washington criminal charge
Negligent driving in Washington
Negligent driving is a Misdemeanor under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 46.61.5249. As a Misdemeanor, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Washington sets for that offense class. Washington sorts criminal offenses into class A, B, and C felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors — a gross misdemeanor is a distinct, more serious rung than a misdemeanor — with maximum penalties set by RCW 9A.20.021.
Defined by RCW 46.61.5249.
What is the penalty for negligent driving in Washington?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 90 days (statutory maximum, county jail (RCW 9A.20.021(3)); offenses outside Title 9A carry the same default under RCW 9.92.030 unless the offense fixes its own penalty) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
| Fine | up to $1,000 (statutory maximum, adult offenders (RCW 9A.20.021(5))) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
Applies to current.
Common questions about negligent driving in Washington
Is negligent driving a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
Negligent driving is a Misdemeanor in Washington under RCW 46.61.5249.
What are the penalties for negligent driving in Washington?
As a Misdemeanor, negligent driving carries up to 90 days (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000 (no mandatory minimum) under RCW 9A.20.021 (current).
Which Washington statute covers negligent driving?
Negligent driving is governed by RCW 46.61.5249 (Negligent driving—First degree).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.