Negligent Driving - First Degree
Negligent driving in the first degree can be charged when a police officer has evidence that a driver has operated a motor vehicle in a manner that is both "negligent and endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property and exhibits the effects of having consumed liquor or an illegal drug." Negligent Driving in the first degree is a misdemeanor with maximum penalties of up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 fine.
RCW 46.61.5249
Negligent Driving - Second Degree
Negligent driving in the second degree can be charged when a police officer has evidence that a driver has operated a motor vehicle in a manner that is both "negligent and endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property." Negligent Driving in the second degree is a non-criminal traffic infraction and is subject to a fine of $550.00.
Negligent Driving is often charged in the following situations:
multiple violations of the traffic code
driving at 20 m.p.h. or more above the posted speed limit
