Negligent Driving in Seattle

Negligent driving is charged to drivers who endanger other people or their property. While not as serious as a reckless driving charge, the ramifications of a conviction can cause all sorts of problems and end up costing a bundle. Seattle law divides the crime of negligent driving into two distinct categories or “degrees.” Each should be taken seriously, and our Seattle negligent driving lawyers can help you better understand this particular offense.

First Degree Negligent Driving is the more serious of the two offenses, and is charged to someone who drives irresponsibly AND shows signs that they consumed alcoholic beverages. This means that you can be charged with an alcohol related driving offense even though you are not legally intoxicated or otherwise impaired in any way.

Second Degree Negligent Driving is a civil infraction, but it is considered to be the most serious infraction a driver can be cited for. A conviction will most likely result in your insurance rates going sky high, so the overall long-term cost can be much greater than it initially appears.

While there are several different types of negligent driving, it is important to know all can seriously impact you. Potential ramifications range from 90 days in jail to a $5,000 fine and a 90-day license suspension. With potential consequences like this, it is important you take a moment to look closely at what you have been given by the officer to make sure you know what you will be facing.

If you’ve been charged with either variety of negligent driving it makes sense to do everything you can to minimize the damage as much as possible. Our Seattle negligent driving attorneys take every criminal case seriously, no matter how big or small, and will ensure that your legal rights are being acknowledged.

Attorney Jason S. Newcombe knows the most effective techniques to defend clients from negligent driving charges that are often discretionary in nature. In certain circumstances, a more serious Seattle drunk driving crime like DUI can be reduced to a first degree negligent driving charge through negotiations with the court. This is preferable because there would be no mandatory jail time or driver’s license suspension associated with the lesser offense.

First, you will want to address your case with one of our Seattle negligent driving attorneys so they can make an accurate assessment of your situation. You can talk to one of our qualified legal professionals about your situation by contacting us for a free case evaluation. This is the first step toward building a defense designed around having your charges dismissed or reduced. There is no obligation to make a decision regarding legal representation, you can simply get the facts and then think it over thoroughly.

If you do choose our team of Seattle negligent driving lawyers to take your case, they will actively pursue a favorable resolution, using every legal tool at their disposal. Start building a strong legal defense today!