Washington criminal charge
Negligent driving in Washington
Negligent driving is a Traffic Infraction under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 46.61.526. As a Traffic Infraction, 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 46.61.526.
Common questions about negligent driving in Washington
Is negligent driving a crime in Washington?
Which Washington statute covers negligent driving?
Negligent driving is governed by RCW 46.61.526 (Negligent driving—With a vulnerable user victim—Second degree—Penalties—Definitions).
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.