November 16, 2015 Washington State has instilled reckless driving penalties and consequences that need to be upheld in order to remove any risk of tickets, lost time behind the wheel, steep financial penalties and even time in jail. What is Reckless Driving? Reckless driving is described by the Washington State Legislature as, “Any person who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving. Violation of the provisions of this section is a gross misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to three hundred sixty-four days and by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars.” Penalties and Consequences If you are caught violating reckless driving laws, the penalties can be very steep. The penalties and consequences will vary depending on the severity of the crime and the frequency with which you have been subject to the laws regarding reckless driving. There are also stipulations if you are found to be driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Your license can be suspended for a minimum of 30 days giving you no leeway in regards to operating a moving vehicle on your own. You may be required to only drive a vehicle that contains an ignition interlock driver’s license. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, “An Ignition Interlock Driver License (IIL) allows you to drive a vehicle while your license is suspended or revoked for a drug or alcohol-related offense.” However, in certain instances, if you are driving with a suspended license, the ignition interlock must be installed and utilized with every vehicle you use whether for personal use or for business. The ignition interlock device requires you to blow into a device that assures the driver is not surpassing the legal limit of alcohol before the car can be started. The Nahajski Firm is experienced in criminal defense and will make sure that you are receiving the best representation possible for your unique case. Contact our offices if you have been charged with reckless driving penalties and are facing the strict consequences in Washington State.