SB 5238 expands what constitutes a reckless driving charge to include when a person drives a vehicle intentionally more than 30 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.

The bill passed the Senate early in session with broad support in a 47-2 vote.

Dates to remember

SB 5238 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Community Safety Committee on Tuesday, March 18 at 4 pm.

Senate to set speed threshold on reckless driving

January 24, 2025

The Senate looks to set a clear threshold for when an individual can be charged with reckless driving in Washington.

SB 5238, sponsored by Sens. Ron Muzzall (R-Oak Harbor) and John Lovick (D–Mill Creek), proposes that drivers can be charged with reckless driving if they exceed the posted speed limit by more than 30 miles per hour.

Previously, the law did not specify a precise speed threshold for reckless driving charges. This new 30 miles per hour limit will provide law enforcement with clear guidelines for when to charge individuals with reckless driving.

The charge of reckless driving is a gross misdemeanor and is punishable by imprisonment for up to 364 days and a fine not to exceed $5,000.

Dates to remember

SB 5238 is scheduled for a public hearing in the Senate Law and Justice Committee on Monday, January 27 at 10:30 am. The bill is then scheduled for executive action in the same committee on Thursday, January 30 at 10:30 am.