Washington statute
RCW 46.61.520 — Vehicular homicide—Penalty
Current through 2026 Regular Session
Part of Chapter 46.61: Rules Of The Road, Revised Code of Washington.
Criminal charges under this statute
Full text of RCW 46.61.520
Statutory text current through the 2026 Regular Session. This publication reproduces the official text of the Revised Code of Washington from the Code Reviser's published files; it is not the official statutes of the State of Washington.
(1) When the death of any person ensues within three years as a proximate result of injury proximately caused by the driving of any vehicle by any person, the driver is guilty of vehicular homicide if the driver was operating a motor vehicle:
(a) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, as defined by RCW 46.61.502; or
(b) In a reckless manner; or
(c) With disregard for the safety of others.
(2) Vehicular homicide is a class A felony punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW, except that, for a conviction under subsection (1)(a) of this section, an additional two years shall be added to the sentence for each prior offense as defined in RCW 46.61.5055.
Official sources
Legal terms used in this section
Questions this section answers
Is vehicular homicide a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
Vehicular homicide is a Class A Felony in Washington under RCW 46.61.520.
Which Washington statute covers vehicular homicide?
Vehicular homicide is governed by RCW 46.61.520 (Vehicular homicide—Penalty).
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.