Traffic Violations in Olympia

Picture this scenario for just a second: You are cruising through the streets of Olympia, enjoying everything the scenery has to offer when flashing red and blue lights appear in your rearview mirror. Your heart immediately sinks. Traffic violations are more than just an inconvenience; they have the power to disrupt our lives. Charges can lead to high dollar fines and even put your driving privileges at risk.

From speeding and running red lights to distracted driving and improper lane changes, all of these infractions are common in Olympia and come with their own set of consequences. Having a clear understanding of their nature can help you stay safe and avoid penalties.

One of the more frequently committed offenses on Oiympia’s roadways would be speeding. Whether you find yourself in a rush to get to work on time or you are just cruising down I-5, going over the posted speed limit is a big issue that can ultimately endanger lives. A speeding ticket in Washington can result in fines of $50 to over $400, depending on your speed. Beyond the fine, excessive speeding can also cost you points on your license and even lead to license suspension in severe cases.

Distracted driving is another growing concern in Olympia. Washington’s driving under the influence of electronics (DUI-E) law prohibits drivers from holding or using their electronic devices while behind the wheel. Violations can lead to fines that start at approximately $136 for the first offense and increased amounts for repeat offenses. Distracted driving is dangerous for everyone on the road and is one of the leading causes of accidents.

Finally, reckless driving and DUIs are also among some of the more severe traffic violations in Olympia. It is usually treated as a gross misdemeanor and can result in up to 264 days in jail, a $5,000 fine, and a six-month license suspension.

Driving under the influence typically comes with mandatory court appearances, incarceration, and even license revocation. Both of these offenses not only affect the offender but also everyone else around them.

Washington State Laws and Statutes Relevant to Traffic Violations in Olympia

It is so important to take the time to get to know and understand the laws surrounding traffic violations in Olympia. Here are some of the more relevant statutes you can find in the Revised Code of Washington.

• RCW 46.61.400 – Basic Speed Rule and Maximum Speed Limits: This statute governs speeding violations. It sets maximum speed limits and requires drivers to operate vehicles at a reasonable speed based on the current road conditions. Exceeding these limits can result in fines or increased insurance premiums.
• RCW 46.61.688 – Seat Belt Use Required: This law says that drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Violations of this law can lead to fines and may also serve as contributing evidence in accident-related legal disputes.
• RCW 46.20.342 – Driving While License Suspended or Revoked: Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in Washington. Penalties for this vary based on the degree of suspension but can include fines, additional suspension time, or even jail time.
• RCW 46.61.502 – Driving Under the Influence (DUI): This statute outlines the legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and impairment by drugs or alcohol. DUI convictions carry severe penalties, including license suspension, fines, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and potential jail time.
• RCW 46.61.5249 – Negligent Driving in the First Degree: This law applies to drivers whose negligence creates a substantial risk of harm to others. Violations of this law often result in fines and possible license suspension.
• RCW 46.61.500 – Reckless Driving: This is considered a gross misdemeanor and involves operating a vehicle with a willful disregard for the safety of others. Penalties for breaking this law can include up to 364 days in jail, fines of up to $5,000, and a six-month license suspension.
• RCW 46.61.050 – Obedience to Traffic Control Devices: Drivers have to follow traffic signals, stop signs, and other control devices. Failure to do so can result in fines and points on a driver’s record.
• RCW 46.61.672 – Use of Wireless Communication Devices (DUI-E Law)
  Washington prohibits holding or using electronic devices while driving. Violations lead to fines and are reported to insurance companies.

The Roads and Layout of Olympia

Olympia’s roadways are a practical network used to connect the city’s key destinations and neighborhoods. For example, Capitol Way leads right into Washington’s state government hub, and West Bay Drive offers a route along the beautiful waterfront. Major highways like Interstate 5 also link Olympia to neighboring cities.

As Olympia continues to grow, traffic issues like congestion and safety concerns become more apparent. Commuters, visitors, and traffic on these roadways can result in heavy usage patterns, and speeding and distracted driving can happen in busy intersections. Navigating the roads with care is essential for reducing violations and maintaining a safe environment for all road users.

Experienced Criminal Attorneys for Traffic Violations in Olympia

When you are facing traffic violations in Olympia, a skilled attorney can make all the difference in protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences. Whether it’s just speeding tickets, a reckless driving charge, or something more severe like a DUI, our attorneys specialize in these cases.

Beyond just fighting the charges against you, criminal attorneys can also guide you through the process and make sure you understand all of your options. For more severe charges like DUIs and reckless driving, your attorney can help mitigate the long-term effects of these traffic violations on your life, career, and driving record.

We strongly believe that every traffic violation, from speeding tickets to reckless driving charges, can be defended. For over two decades, our attorneys have skillfully handled driving-related cases across Western Washington and have continuously delivered results that protect our clients’ rights and futures.

If you or someone you care about is facing a serious traffic offense, it’s time to consult an experienced traffic attorney. A knowledgeable defense lawyer can analyze your case, identify key opportunities for challenge, and develop a strategy aimed at achieving a favorable outcome.

Our team of dedicated traffic attorneys in Olympia is relentless in pursuing justice for our clients. We work tirelessly to minimize penalties, help you avoid jail time, and safeguard your driving privileges, providing the strong legal representation you deserve.

Getting stopped by the police and receiving a ticket can be frustrating and stressful. Many traffic violations negatively impact your driving record and insurance rates, which means that you can be paying for one small mistake for years to come.

Before just paying a ticket, make sure you know your other options. It is possible to challenge a ticket. If you have a commercial driver’s license or an intermediate driver’s license, it is absolutely essential that you contact an attorney immediately: the violation could severely impact your career or ability to drive.

For many individuals, the thought of hiring an attorney for a traffic infraction has never occurred to them. Instead, they think they can represent themselves. While you certainly have the right to represent yourself, an attorney will be more familiar with the arguments needed to present your case properly. Simple excuses, like “I was going with the flow of traffic,” “I know I wasn’t speeding because my car can’t go that fast,” or simply “I don’t think I was going that fast” don’t work. Paying a little more today in order to hire an attorney can potentially save you a lot of money later down the road in avoided insurance rate increases.

At Washington State Attorneys, we’re here to protect your driving record and license. If you are thinking about fighting your traffic violation, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Olympia, WA traffic ticket attorney.