Speeding in Tacoma

Have you recently been caught speeding? Then you know how distressing and overwhelming the experience can be. It can also leave you wondering what’s next. In Tacoma, speeding violations are taken seriously and come with serious legal and financial consequences. This is why you must take the time to understand what speeding means and how it can impact your driving record and wallet. A simple traffic infraction can also turn into criminal charges depending on the severity of the offense.

Speeding violations in Tacoma can range from a simple infraction to something severe. Minor offenses, like exceeding the posted speed limit by a few miles per hour, can result in a fine. However, you can face much higher fines, license suspension, or even jail time if the situation is dangerous or results in an accident. For example, if you are caught going significantly over the speed limit, especially in a residential area or school zone.

Washington law also has something known as a reckless driving designation, which can be applied if the speeding is deemed excessively reckless. This also lands you with much harsher penalties.

The emotional and financial toll of a speeding violation can also be substantial. Beyond the fines, your insurance premiums will increase after a speeding conviction. If your speeding ticket was issued as part of a larger criminal case or you have prior offenses, you could face a much more difficult legal battle ahead of you. This might involve court appearances, attorney fees, and a long-term impact on your driving privileges. Even if you weren't involved in an accident, you could still face legal consequences that affect your future driving ability.

If you are facing a speeding violation in Tacoma, it’s important to act as soon as you can. Consult a skilled traffic attorney who can help you understand exactly what your charges mean. They can also explore potential defenses on your behalf and work toward minimizing the impact the charges have on your record. The process can feel intimidating at times, but with the right support, you can pursue a favorable outcome for your case and avoid long-term consequences that could affect your financial stability or ability to drive.

Washington State Laws Relevant to Speeding in Tacoma

Speeding in Tacoma, Washington, is governed by both state and local laws that regulate how fast you can drive. The Washington State Vehicle Code sets the maximum speed limits, which are 60 mph on the highways and 25 mph in residential areas unless it is posted otherwise. School zones have speed limits as low as 20 mph during certain hours when children are present.

Additionally, Washington law distinguishes between regular speeding infractions and more serious violations like reckless driving (RCW 46.61.500) or negligent driving. If you are caught speeding 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit, you can be hit with reckless driving. This is a criminal offense that carries penalties, including a possible jail sentence, fines, and a permanent mark on your driving record. Washington also uses a prima facie speed limit system.

Simply put, if you are caught driving below the posted speed limit, you can still be cited if it’s determined that you are driving too fast for road conditions—such as weather, traffic, or roadwork.

Understanding Tacoma’s Traffic Laws and Speeding Penalties

Tacoma is a busy city in Washington known for its urban streets, residential neighborhoods, and many scenic routes. However, the roads can also be high-risk areas for speeding violations. Authorities are vigilant when it comes to enforcing the posted speed limits, especially around construction zones, school zones, and populated residential areas.

As a driver, you must be aware that there are varying speed limits depending on the area you are in. So whether you are commuting through Tacoma or just passing through, you must understand the city’s specific traffic regulations to avoid the costly penalties and potential criminal charges (RCW 9A.20.021) we described.

Because of the city’s heightened focus on road safety, you must drive within the posted limits and be aware of speed traps and enforcement zones. Remember, speeding charges can be more than just an inconvenience; they can have long-lasting effects on your driving privileges and finances.

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for Speeding in Tacoma

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is important when you find yourself facing speeding violations in Tacoma. An attorney will take the time to examine all the facts surrounding your case. This means they will scrutinize the speed measurement method law enforcement used to determine how fast you were going. They can also check if the proper procedures were followed when you were pulled over and assist in minimizing the consequences you might see from these kinds of charges. For example, reckless driving is considered a gross misdemeanor that can come with fines of up to $5,000 and a maximum jail sentence of up to one year. Your skilled criminal defense attorney will use their expertise and knowledge to advocate for your rights and present a strong case that can lead to alternative sentencing options, reduced penalties, or even the complete dismissal of your case.

We firmly believe that every speeding violation can be challenged, so don’t feel like you need to go through this alone. Count on us to be your biggest ally when it comes to protecting your driving privileges and keeping your bank account intact. Get in touch with one of our criminal defense attorneys so you can look forward to a more positive future.

Speeding tickets are the most common tickets being issued on Washington roads. Some recent transplants discover this the hard way. Unlike in other states where the freeway speed limit is more like a polite suggestion, officers here closely monitor speeding traffic. Your speed is typically determined by way of three different methods.

1. Speed Measuring Device (SMD) – This is the most common method of obtaining speed and means the officer was using a LIDAR or RADAR gun. RADAR obviously, used radar technology, while a LIDAR gun uses laser technology. Each type of gun has its strengths and weaknesses. Some case be used while in a moving vehicle (even going to opposite direction in traffic) while others can only be used while completely stationary. Some can be shot over great distances while others should be used more closely to the target.
2. Pace – A pace is when the officer uses his vehicle’s speedometer to determine your speed. Basically, the officer will try to drive his car behind your car at a constant distance over a short period of time to match speeds. Since he can see his speed, he will know what your speed is.
3. Airplane - This is the least common method of obtaining speed in western Washington. In certain areas, there are markings on the ground which indicates measured distances. An officer in an airplane then uses a stop watch to time vehicles as the drive from one marking to the next to determine their speeds. The airplane officer then radios down to an officer in a patrol car to pull over the targeted vehicle. Obviously, this is a time consuming and frankly, expensive method to obtain speed.

Officers do not have to prove you intended to speed. They only need to prove that you were speeding and speeding is considered even going only 1 mph over the limit. Obviously, most officers are reasonable enough to not give you a ticket for going only 1 mph over the limit. However, there is no magical number where the officers will begin to pull you over. You just need to be aware of the speed limit and conditions. If you are traveling in a slower zone, the speed threshold will also be lower.

Whether you were cited for going only 5 mph over the limit or 25 mph over the limit, you want to try to keep it off of your record. Having an experienced traffic attorney represent you will give you the best chance at success. The Law Offices of Jason Newcombe are here to fight to fight and protect your record.