<a href="https://www.merrilllaw.com/blog/what-is-a-ticket" title="What is a Ticket?">What is a Ticket?

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After You Hire Merrill Law for a Traffic Ticket

What happens after you hire Merrill Law for representation for a traffic ticket?

After You hire means that you have completed the client agreement form and provided payment. Our legal team members will process the proper paperwork to fight your ticket.

We will notify the court in writing that Merrill Law is representing you, and we will request the Discovery.

The Discovery are documents that include the sworn reports from the arresting officer. The Attorney will review and build a defense for your specific case.

Setting a Court Date

When the court receives our notice of appearance, the court clerks will assign a court date. We watch your case closely for this date to be set. It will then be added to our calendar for the attorney to appear on your behalf.

The court has 120 days to hold a hearing for the traffic infraction.

Sometimes the courts will send you a notice of the hearing date. You are not required to attend or fill out the statement. We will address your infraction at the court hearing. You do not need to miss any of your own obligations.

Sometimes an infraction will have more than one hearing date for a variety of reasons. We will address this infraction for you until it has been resolved.

The day of your hearing

It is not necessary for you to attend the court date. We will address your traffic infraction at the time of the hearing. When you completed the client agreement form, you authorized Merrill Law to act on your behalf at the court hearing.

What happens next?

We will monitor your file for the court clerks to complete the updates in the court docket regarding your case.

This is a very important step as the Docket Entry directly affects your driving record. We want to make sure that this has been correctly entered to reflect the decisions that were made at Court.

Once the docket has been updated and the outcome is verified by the attorney. We will notify you by mail of the outcome of your case. This process normally takes several days to a week.

Call us now to ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

Want To Hear More From us.

You can connect with us on social media at any of the networks below.

Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter.

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Intermediate License

What is an Intermediate License?

An intermediate license is issued by the Washington State Department of Licensing to a teen driver under the age of 18.

The teen driver is required to:

Obtain an instruction permit.
Drive with a licensed driver that has been licensed for 5 years or more.
Complete 50 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving.
Pass an approved driver training course.
Have an instruction permit for at least 6 months.
Pass the driving test at an approved driver testing location.

Intermediate License Restrictions

Keep the following restrictions in mind to avoid a possible suspension of your license. These restrictions are in place until the driver has reached the age of 18.

Driving with Passengers

For the first 6 months, a driver under 18, is not allowed to have passengers (under the age of 20 years old) in the vehicle. Exception for immediate family members.
After the first 6 months, a driver under 18, is not allowed to have more than 3 passengers (under the age of 20 years old) in the vehicle. Exception for immediate family members.
If the intermediate licensed driver is convicted of an infraction, the 6 month passenger restriction begins again on the date the ticket was found committed, or paid to the court.

Driving at Night

For the first 12 months, the intermediate driver is not allowed to drive between the hours of 1:00 am and 5:00 am. Unless there is a licensed driver (over the age of 25) accompanying the teen driver in the car.

No Personal Electronic Devices

The intermediate licensed driver is not allowed to use a wireless device while driving. This includes a hands-free device.

Talking on cell phones
Texting
Emailing

Consequences of Violation Restrictions

First violation:

A warning letter will be mailed from the Washington State Department of Licensing to the parent of the intermediate licensed driver. The following situations will generate a warning letter from DOL.

The intermediate driver is issued a ticket for violating the restrictions
The intermediate driver is issued a ticket for violating the rules of the road
The intermediate driver is involved in an accident in which:
- The intermediate driver is determined to have caused the accident
- No one involved in the accident receives a ticket
- The cause of the accident can not be determined
- There is only one car involved in the accident.

Second violation:

The intermediate licensed driver will have their license suspended for 6 months or until they reach the age of 18, whichever comes first.

The Washington State Department of Licensing will notify the intermediate licensed driver, as well as, the parent or guardian before they take any suspension action.

Third violation:

The intermediate licensed driver will be suspended until they reach the age of 18.

The Washington State Department of Licensing will notify the intermediate licensed driver as well as the parent of guardian before they take any suspension action.

To Clarify Suspensions

We know that you may be trying to clarify the things that can cause suspensions of an Intermediate License.

Per RCW 46.20.267 Intermediate License

Will be suspended for up to 6 months if you commit two traffic offenses under RCW 46.61 or Violation of Intermediate License Restrictions under RCW 46.20.075

If three violations are found committed the DOL will suspend the Driver’s License until the person reaches 18 years of age.

Violations that DO count towards suspension include these common offenses:

Speeding
Negligent driving 2nd degree
Failure to wear safety belt
Speed too fast for conditions
HOV lane violation
Following too closely
Driving later than curfew
Driving with unrelated passengers
Personal electronic device use while driving

Violations that DO NOT count toward suspension include these common offenses:

Expired registration
Modified exhaust
Tinted windows too dark
Defective equipment

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Image credit: Max: Learning how to drive by Per Mosseby

Understanding and Managing Your Driving Record in Everett, Snohomish County

Criminal Defense, Speeding Tickets, Traffic Tickets

Introduction

In Everett and Snohomish County, maintaining a clean driving record is crucial for a variety of reasons, from securing lower insurance rates to ensuring employment opportunities. At Merrill Law, we’re dedicated to helping you understand and manage your driving record efficiently.

What is a Driving Record?

According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, a driving record (also called a motor vehicle record or driver abstract) is “a history of violations, convictions, collisions, and departmental actions incurred by a driver over a period of time.” Your driving record contains detailed information about your driving history and status.

Types of Driving Records in Washington

There are several different types of driving records available from the Washington State Department of Licensing, depending on who is requesting the record and for what purpose.

Complete Driving Record

A complete record contains the full history including:

Convictions
Violations
Collisions
Suspensions
Revocations
Disqualifications
Deferred prosecutions
Failures to appear

The following parties are allowed to obtain a complete driving record:

The individual named on the record
Attorneys
Law enforcement and government agencies

Insurance Abstract

An insurance abstract shows the past 3 years of both commercial and non-commercial driving events such as:

Convictions
Violations
Collisions
Failures to appear

Insurance companies and agents can obtain insurance abstracts when creating or renewing auto insurance policies for an individual.

Employment Record

Employment driving records include:

Convictions
Violations
Collisions
Suspensions
Revocations
Disqualifications
Deferred prosecutions
Failures to appear

Current and prospective employers are able to get employment records when hiring drivers or individuals who will operate a vehicle for work purposes.

Alcohol/Drug Assessment Record

Chemical dependency assessment agencies can obtain a record showing any alcohol or drug-related incidents within the last 10 years.

How to Get a Copy of Your Washington Driving Record

There are three main ways for residents of Everett and Snohomish County to request a copy of their own driving record in Washington state:

Visit any local Washington State Department of Licensing in person and request it, providing:
- Photo identification
- $15 fee payment
Order a copy online by providing:
- Washington driver’s license number
- Social security number
- Credit/debit card for $15 fee
Mail in a request form along with:
- $15 check or money order
- Completed driving records request form

No matter which method you choose, be prepared to verify your identity and pay the $15 record fee to the Department of Licensing.

Why You May Need Your Driving Record

Your driving record is more than just a document; it can significantly impact various aspects of your life:

Insurance Rates: Insurers use your driving record to assess risk. A clean record can lead to lower premiums.
Employment Opportunities: Employers, especially those in transportation or delivery services, review driving records as part of their hiring process.
Legal Proceedings: In case of traffic violations or accidents, your driving record can be a crucial piece of evidence.
Correcting Errors: Driving records can sometimes contain incorrect information. Obtaining an official copy allows you to identify and dispute any errors or inaccuracies.

Common Issues and How We Can Help

At Merrill Law, we specialize in addressing common issues related to driving records, such as:

Traffic Violations: Our team can provide legal representation to contest traffic tickets and minimize their impact on your record.
DUI Charges: We offer expert defense for DUI charges to protect your record and your rights.

Local Expertise: With years of experience serving clients in Everett and Snohomish County, our attorneys understand the local laws and court systems. This local expertise enables us to provide tailored legal services that address your specific needs effectively.

Client Testimonials

Our clients trust us with their most critical legal issues. Here’s what they have to say:

“Merrill Law helped me with two infractions about 1 year apart. Both were dismissed with no impact to my driving record. It took minimal participation on my part and was well worth the effort. Thank you Merrill Law.” – Scott Lankford
“I love this place the attorneys here are awesome and do a really good job they have handled all my traffic citations and I appreciate the hard work they have put in towards it again thank you to all the attorneys at Merrill Law.” – Prestons Hernandezs

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Image credit: DMV San Francisco by Gabriel White

Infraction Continuance

What is a Continuance for an Infraction?

There is a chance that we will need to ask for an infraction continuance for your case.

A “Continuance” is a motion to the court to request that a new court hearing date be set. Continuances are normal and have no negative impact on the outcome of your case. This rescheduling process is approved and processed through the court.

There are multiple reasons why a motion to continue may be filed.

Examples can include:

Court calendar scheduling conflicts.
Perhaps we are waiting for the complete documentation that we have requested to build the defense for your case.
Negotiation for an improved outcome.
Time needed to allow you to complete a step to address the needs that have come to light.

How Many Times?

The number of times a case may be continued, depends on the court that the case is assigned to. The Judge that is presiding may also have limits in place. In some situations motions to continue may be allowed multiple times for a case. In other situations they may only be allowed one time.

We file the appropriate documents to allow the court to reset the case to a new hearing date. The court will then have a new 120 days to hold a hearing for the traffic infraction.

Do I Need To Worry About Infraction Continuance?

No. The new court date will be placed on our calendar, and we will address the new hearing on your behalf.

We will confirm the outcome for your infraction has been recorded as agreed in the Court docket. You will be notified of the details by mail.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Moving and Non Moving Violations

Moving Violations

There are many different moving violations that can affect your driving record. Moving Violations affect your record and can cause your insurance rates to go up. We will discuss a few at this time.

Personal Electronic Device

In June of 2017 the Washington State laws changed to make using your Personal Electronic Device a moving violation. For a first offense the fee is $136 and a a second offense will be $234.

Officers may pull you over if they see you holding your device in your hand while on the roadways, even if you are stopped at a traffic light.

A driver may use a personal electronic device if using it in a hands free manner. You may only start a function with a single touch or swipe if you are not holding your device.

Speeding

Speed limits are important to help with overall traffic safety and having an enforced speed limit reduces traffic collisions and fatalities.

There are multiple ways a driver could be caught for speeding. These include Radar, Lidar, Aircraft Patrol, Pacing your vehicle. In each instance documentation will be filed regarding the infraction, this is commonly referred to as the police report.

Accident tickets

Not all accidents result in an issuance of a traffic ticket. Some common citations issued due to an accident include: speed too fast for conditions, improper lane change, failure to yield, failure to stop, following too close and negligent driving.

If a citation is issued regarding the accident it would appear in the infractions section of the motor vehicle record.

In Washington the report of an accident will appear on your driving record in the Accident Section.

Once hired, we would go to court for you and help fight the traffic ticket in court and try to keep the citation off of the infraction section of your driving record.

Non Moving Violations

Non moving violations may be reported to the Department of Licensing. These may be visible to your insurance company, however would have less consequences to your record than a moving violation. These can include some of the items listed below.

Seat belt Violations

A seat belt violation may be visible on your driving record however it will not be visible for insurance companies to view. All occupants of a vehicle must wear appropriate restraints. Children are to be in approved child restraints as noted in the Rules of the Road.

Parking tickets

Parking tickets are assigned to the vehicle or the vehicle’s registered owner. Parking tickets do not affect your driving record, because you are not usually present when the the ticket is issued.

Camera tickets

Camera tickets or photo enforced tickets are issued to the registered owner of a vehicle that was caught on a camera committing an infraction.

These infractions do not go on your driving record. However if you do not address them in a timely manner they can cause you to not be able to renew your registration.

Our goal when we represent you is to protect your driving record. Since the red light camera tickets do not appear on your driving record, our advice would be to pay the fine or go to court and get the fine reduced..

How Can You Tell If it is Moving and Non Moving?

There is a list of moving violations and non moving violations on the Washington Administrative Code, also known as the WAC.

WAC 308.104.160 has this list.

This list is not exhaustive and some non moving violations can affect your record.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Image credit: Meghan, Using two cell phones by Ryan Harvey

Possible Infraction Outcomes

Possible Outcomes

There are many different outcomes that are possible for an infraction. Each one has different effects on your driving abstract or record. Some will appear in your abstract and some will not. Some may raise your insurance rates, because insurance plans are different the only way to truly know if your insurance rates are going to increase would be to talk with your car insurance agent.

We will discuss some of the main categories of these possible outcomes.

Dismissed

Our first goal to protect your driving record would be an outright Dismissal without cost to you.

This case will appear in the court dockets as having occurred, but the outcome is listed as dismissed. Thereby protecting your driving abstract or record.

Committed

This is when the Judge has ruled, despite all arguments, that the charges on your ticket are valid and is not willing to remove or amend the infraction in any way to protect the record.

Amended

Having a ticket amended means that although the Judge was unwilling to dismiss the ticket, they were agreeable to amend the infraction in a way to help reduce insurance consequences. With a procedural change of this manner the Judge will assess a court fee in relation to the new charge.

Deferred Finding

According to Washington State Legislature RCW 46.63.070 the court may grant deferred findings for a traffic infraction. However, the court also has the option of placing stipulations or conditions on that deferred finding and may assess additional court costs for administrative processing.

If at the end of the deferral period, you have met all of the conditions that the court has imposed, then the court may dismiss the infraction.

You are only allowed to use the deferral option one time within a seven year period for traffic infractions for moving violations.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) operators are not eligible for a deferral.

Confirmed Outcome

We will notify you when we have confirmed that your outcome has been recorded correctly in your court docket.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Traffic Ticket Mistakes and Myths in Everett and Snohomish County

Ticket Mistakes and Myths

Traffic tickets are more than just an inconvenience; they can lead to significant fines, increased insurance rates, and even license suspensions. At Merrill Law, we aim to clear up common myths and mistakes surrounding traffic tickets to help our clients in Everett and Snohomish County navigate these challenges effectively.

Common Traffic Ticket Myths

Myth 1: Errors on Your Ticket Lead to Automatic Dismissal

Reality: Minor mistakes, such as the wrong car color or plate number, do not typically result in dismissal. Courts focus on the nature of the violation rather than clerical errors.

Myth: 2 You Can’t Fight a Traffic Ticket

Reality: Many people assume fighting a ticket is futile. However, with an experienced attorney, you can challenge the evidence and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.

Myth 3: Going with the Flow of Traffic is a Valid Defense

Reality: Speeding is speeding, regardless of whether others are doing it. The posted speed limit is the law.

Myth 4: Officers Must Show You the Radar Gun Reading

Reality: In Washington State, officers are not required to show you the radar or lidar reading at the time of the stop.

Common Traffic Ticket Mistakes

1 – Ignoring the Ticket

Failing to respond can lead to additional penalties, including fines and license suspension.

2 – Paying the Fine Without Question

Paying the fine is an admission of guilt, which can have long-term consequences on your driving record and insurance rates.

3 – Not Hiring an Attorney

Navigating the legal system alone can be challenging. An attorney with local expertise can help you understand your options and build a strong defense.

Local Traffic Laws and Regulations

Understanding local traffic laws in Everett and Snohomish County can be crucial in handling your ticket:

Speed Limits in School and Construction Zones

Speed limits vary, and fines are higher in school and construction zones. Knowing these local specifics can help in contesting tickets.

Red Light Cameras

Snohomish County has several intersections monitored by red light cameras. Being aware of these locations can help you avoid fines.

Local Enforcement Practices

Local police may have different priorities and practices, affecting how tickets are issued and contested.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Image credit: Ticket by Robert Couse-Baker on Flickr

Failure to Appear for a Traffic Ticket

What is Failure to Appear?

If you do not respond to your Traffic Citation in a timely manner a Failure to Appear (FTA) will be added to your court file.

When you receive a traffic citation, you are required to respond to the court within 15 calendar days from the date of the infraction.

A failure to appear may make resolving your infraction more complicated. This depends on when the ticket was issued and which court has jurisdiction.

Failure to Appear Can Cause a License Suspension.

According to RCW 46.20.289.The Washington State Department of Licensing can suspend all driving privileges if they receive notice from the court that a person has:

Failed to respond to a traffic citation.
Failed to appear at a hearing.
Violated a written promise to appear in court for the infraction.

How Long is my License Suspended or Revoked?

Your license can be suspended until you pay the fine or comply with the requirement to appear in court.

Steps to Reinstate Your License.

Once your failure to appear has been cleared with the court, they will issue a certificate of adjudication.
After the court notifies DOL that your failure to appear has been cleared, DOL will update your driving record to show your license is not suspended or revoked any more.
You will need to apply for a new license. You may need to pay a:
- $75 reissue fee plus your licensing fees if the original charge wasn’t drug or alcohol related, or
- $150 reissue fee plus your licensing fees if the original charge was drug or alcohol related.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

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Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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What is a CDL?

On the Road, Traffic Tickets

What is a CDL

A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is a special license that is required by the Washington State Department of Licensing, for those who drive any of the following types of vehicles:

Vehicles with a manufacturer’s weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
Trailers with a manufacturer’s weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more and a combined vehicle gross weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
All vehicles designed to transport 16 or more people including the driver
All school buses
Vehicles used to transport any hazardous material.

For requirements related to obtaining a CDL see the Washington State Department of Licensing.

Protection is the Key

It is extremely important to protect a CDL from situations that can cause suspension, disqualification, revocation, or cancellation.

Your CDL could be disqualified if you:

Commit 2 or more serious traffic offenses from separate incidents within a 3 year period.
Receive a DUI conviction.
Have a suspension of your regular Washington State driver’s license.

Steps to reinstate a commercial driver’s license may include:

Retaking the knowledge and driving test
Fees
Other Requirements as needed

Merrill Law helps protect those drivers who have commercial driver’s licenses.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Infraction Traffic School

Infraction and Traffic School

Sometimes you may be asked to complete infraction traffic school to facilitate a favorable resolution of a traffic infraction. These requests may originate with the judge or prosecutor or the attorneys and are a way to negotiate a resolution.

Why Infraction Traffic School?

Depending on what has been negotiated, you may be asked to attend a specific class, may have the stipulation to attend the traffic school in person, sometimes, the requirement to complete traffic school can be completed online.

Level 1

A level 1 traffic school class is a 4 hour class will address safe driving practices.

Level 2

A level 2 traffic school class is a 8 hour class that will include safe driving practices, information regarding aggressive driving or road rage.

Completion

Upon completion of the traffic school you will receive a certificate to prove that you have met the requirements. This Certificate will be presented to the court.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

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(425) 259 4972

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Ticket Terminology

Ticket Terminology

Ticket Terminology can be confusing. We are going to try to clear them up for you.

Traffic and Non Traffic Citations

A Traffic Ticket is related to a vehicle.

This might include Speeding, Fail to Obey Traffic Control Device, Fail to Renew Registration, Safety belt and more.

A Non Traffic Ticket that does not involve a vehicle.

This might include Jaywalking, noise violations, or other items.

Ticket Terminology Traffic Tickets? Let us talk about Moving Violation and Non Moving violation.

Moving Violations affect your record and can cause your insurance rates to go up.

How Can You Tell If it is Non Moving or Moving?

There is a list of moving violations and non moving violations on the Washington Administrative Code, also known as the WAC.

WAC 308.104.160 has this list.

This list is not exhaustive and some non moving violations can affect your record.

Moving Violations

According to WAC 308-104-160 the term “moving violation” means any violation of vehicle laws listed in this section that is committed by the driver of a vehicle, while the vehicle is moving.

Non Moving Violations

Non-moving violation include Parking violations, equipment violations or paperwork violations relating to insurance, registration, licensing and inspection.

How do these affect your record?

There are different consequences to you and your record for each violation.

There are several factors to consider when addressing a ticket, do you:

Have a Commercial Drivers License?
Drive for work?
Have an Intermediate License?
What is the specific charge (reason for the ticket)?

A Moving Violation that is reported to the Department of License will appear on your Driving Abstract for 3 years. It may affect your insurance rates and possibly your work.

A Non Moving Violation may be reported to the Department of License. The consequences for a non moving violation are less than for a moving violation and may not affect your car insurance rates. Each insurance company and policy is different.

For example: according to RCW 46.61.688 a person violating the safety belt law will be issued a traffic infraction. If a committed finding is found for the safety belt violation it shall be reported on the driver’s abstract but shall not be available to insurance companies or employers.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Send Us Your Case Information

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Negligent Driving 1st or 2nd Degree

Criminal Defense, Speeding Tickets, Traffic Tickets

Negligent Driving 1st Degree is a criminal misdemeanor charge.

According to the RCW 46.61.5249: A person is guilty of negligent driving in the first degree if he or she operates a motor vehicle in a manner that is both negligent and endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property, and exhibits the effects of having consumed liquor or marijuana or any drug or exhibits the effects of having inhaled or ingested any chemical, whether or not a legal substance, for its intoxicating or hallucinatory effects.

If convicted, a negligent driving in the 1st degree has a maximum penalty of:

90 days in jail
$1000 penalty

A conviction of Negligent Driving 1st degree does not have a negative impact on the driver’s license and does not require a SR-22 filing.

There may be additional requirements, if there are prior convictions, including a conviction of DUI.

Ignition interlock license may be required by the Washington State Department of Licensing which include a requirement for an SR-22 filing.

Ignition interlock device may be required to be installed in your vehicle

Negligent Driving 2nd degree is a traffic infraction

It is considered a moving violation. It will have negative insurance consequences. This infraction is subject to a penalty of $550.00

According to RCW 46.61.525: A person is guilty of negligent driving in the second degree if, under circumstances not constituting negligent driving in the first degree, he or she operates a motor vehicle in a manner that is both negligent and endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Image credit: Getting a Ticket in Hollywood, California by Chris Yarzab

Cell Phone and Distracted Driving

Cell Phone and Distracted Driving Laws Changed In July of 2017…

These changes to Cell Phone and Distracted Driving Laws make it illegal to hold your personal electronic device while you drive. This is true even if you are stopped at a traffic light. Hands free is allowed or you may operate the device with a single touch.

The changes will make a these violations appear on your driving record as a moving violation. A moving violation will remain on your driving record for 3 years.

These charges are visible to your insurance company and may effect your insurance rates.

You can find the complete Information for the RCW here.

We can help you

Protect your driving record when you get a cell phone or personal electronic device ticket.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Accident Ticket

Accident Ticket

Common citations issued due to an accident include:

Accident tickets will appear in the infractions section of your driving record. Not all accidents result in an issuance of a Accident ticket.

Speed too fast for conditions
Improper lane change
Failure to yield
Failure to stop
Following too close
Negligent driving

These infractions are considered moving violations and can effect your record.

Accidents

Accidents have many different components and can be very complex at times.

These can include injuries, vehicle damage, vehicle loss, property damage, impound, clean up fees and tickets.

We Can Help with an Accident Ticket

We will go to court to fight the accident ticket for you. Our goal is to keep the citation, the moving violation, off of the infraction section of your driving record.

In Washington the report of an accident will appear on your driving record in the Accident Section. We are not able remove an accident report.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Image credit: Holly Ramsey

Speed Too Fast for Conditions

Speed Too Fast for Conditions, But I was not speeding.

A Speed Too Fast for Conditions infraction is in the same sub sections as speeding. And while you might not have been speeding, the “Condition” refers to being too close to the car in front of you to be able to stop before running into the back of that car.

This is a moving violation that will stay on your driving record for 3 years. It can cause your insurance rates to go up.

We Can Help with an Speed Too Fast for Conditions Ticket

We will go to court to fight the ticket for you. Our goal is to keep the citation, the moving violation, off of the infraction section of your driving record.

In Washington the report of an accident will appear on your driving record in the Accident Section. We are not able remove an accident report.

I Don’t Want it on My Record…

Call the office to discuss the details and see if we can help you with an infraction like this.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

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(425) 259 4972

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Defective Equipment

Defective Equipment

The Revised Code of Washington has a list of defective equipment violations. Some examples include a cracked windshield, tail light burned out, headlight burned out, brake light burned out.

Negative Impacts of Defective Equipment Ticket

Some of these violations appear on your driving record and may have a negative impact that can cause an increase in your automobile insurance rates.

According the WAC 308-104-160, Parking violations, equipment violations or paperwork violations relating to insurance, registration, licensing, and inspection are considered “non-moving violations”.

It is important to realize that the safety implications of keeping your vehicle in good condition are at the foundation of these tickets. Visibility, proper traction, or effective brakes can make a significant difference for you, your passengers and those around you.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

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Safety Belts in Washington

Safety Belt Law

All adults are required by Washington State law to wear a safety belt while operating a motor vehicle.

Every person over the age of 16 (who is either a driver or a passenger) in a vehicle is required by law to wear a safety belt in a properly secured manner.

The driver is required to ensure that all passengers under the age of 16 are wearing a seat belt or are securely fastened in an approved child safety restraint.

There can be a written verification from a licensed physician that states that the operator or passenger is unable to use a safety belt for medical or physical reasons.

You could be issued a traffic infraction, if you violate the seat belt law of Washington State. This infraction will appear on your driving record if you are found guilty. However according to RCW 46.61.688 the traffic infraction is not available to insurance companies or employers.

Safety Belt Child Restraints

A child under 2 years of age must be secured in a rear-facing restraint until the child reaches the height or weight limit of the restraint system as set by the manufacturer.
A child who is under 4 years of age must be secured in a forward-facing restraint until the child reaches the height or weight limit of the restraint system as set by the manufacturer.
A child that is less than 4 feet 9 inches tall is required to be properly restrained in a child restraint system and it must comply with standards of the United States department of transportation and must be properly installed in the automobile according to the restraint instructions and the automobile automobile manufacturer.
A child who is under the age of 13 must ride in the back seat positions of an automobile when back seat positions are available.

Law Enforcement Officers visually inspect the installation of the child restraint system. The officer will confirm that it is the proper system for the child’s age and height. They will also confirm that it has been properly installed.

A driver who violates the child restraint law may be issued a traffic infraction.

According to RCW 46.61.687, if a driver that is issued a traffic infraction for violating the child restraint law provides proof within 7 days to the issuing jurisdiction that an approved child restraint system has been acquired and if the driver has not had previous child restraint dismissal, the issuing jurisdiction may dismiss the notice of traffic infraction.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972

Click Here To Learn More About Traffic Tickets.

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Motorcycles-Do’s and Don’ts

On the Road, Traffic Tickets

Motorcycles-Do’s and Don’ts

Riding a Motorcycle is a great way to commute and enjoy our beautiful state.

To Legally Ride in Washington State.

You are required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement. There are two endorsements to select from based on the features of the bike that you will be riding:

2-wheel motorcycle.
3-wheel sidecar or trikes.

Requirements for Motorcycles

If the engine is smaller than 50 cc and has a maximum speed of 30 mph you are not required to have an endorsement.
If you have a 2-wheel motorcycle or scooter that has an engine larger than 50 cc or can exceed speeds of 30 mph you are required to have a 2-wheel motorcycle endorsement.
You are required to have a 3-wheel endorsement if your 2-wheel motorcycle has a stabilizing conversion kit installed, if your motorcycle has a sidecar, or if your motorcycle is considered a 3-wheel trike.

To Obtain an Endorsement.

You are required to successfully:

Complete a motorcycle safety course at a Washington State Department of Licensing approved motorcycle training school or,
Pass the knowledge and riding skills test at an approved motorcycle training school.

It is illegal to ride a motorcycle without the proper endorsements or permits.

For additional information please check with Washington State Department of Licensing.

Approved Motorcycle Helmets

Helmets are required to ride a motorcycle or motorcycle trike. They must be certified by the manufacturer as meeting the United States Department of Transportation standards outlined in 49 CFR 571.218.

A helmet that meets the standards required by the Department of Transportation will have:

A sticker on the back
Information on the inside of the helmet that includes manufacturer name, helmet model, and size.

A traffic ticket may be issued If you ride a motorcycle or trike without an approved helmet.

There are many ways an experienced traffic attorney can fight your ticket for you.

Call us now

To ask additional questions or to hire an experienced attorney who has deep connections with the local legal system.

(425) 259 4972