Nationwide, 12,151 folks have been killed in speed-related crashes in 2022, together with at the very least 250 folks in Washington, based on the Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration.
In 2023, Washington had 810 visitors deaths, a 9% improve from 2022.
These statistics are startling sufficient, however it was the visitors demise of a Renton lady and three younger passengers final yr that prompted Rep. Mari Leavitt, D-College Place, to sponsor a invoice that may give legislation enforcement and courts one other instrument to assist maintain power speeders from rushing once more, at the very least briefly. It’s a instrument value including, however with limits.
About 70% of motorists whose licenses are suspended proceed to drive. Underneath House Bill 1596, a driver whose common license has been suspended for a number of visitors violations involving rushing may apply for an occupational/restricted license, which might enable an individual to drive to and from work. Leavitt’s invoice would enable for a restricted license wherein the driving force must have an intelligent speed assistance device put in of their private automobile at a price of $100, plus $21 a month. The gadget makes use of GPS to detect the posted velocity restrict and restricts the automobile from going greater than 10 miles over that restrict.
Chase Daniel Jones, 18, was charged with 4 counts of vehicular murder, vehicular assault and reckless driving after he struck Andrea Smith Hudson’s automobile whereas touring 112 mph in a 40 mph zone. He had been concerned in two earlier crashes inside 10 months.
“These aren’t accidents. They’re deliberately people selecting conduct that’s harming and killing people,” Leavitt advised the Home Transportation Committee.
Due to that reality, if the invoice passes, the velocity gadget must be used judiciously. The invoice authorizes using the gadget and in some instances mandates its use. For some drivers who qualify, it could grant them a chance to stay employed whereas their license is suspended. However for some who repeatedly and recklessly thumb their noses on the legislation and refuse to acknowledge the hazard they current, jail ought to stay the one possibility to guard the general public.
Leavitt’s invoice has obtained help from the Nationwide Transportation Security Board, the Washington Affiliation of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, and the King County Prosecutor’s Workplace.
Velocity-related crashes are preventable. In accordance with the NHTSA, rushing contributed to 34% of all visitors fatalities within the state in 2022. Courts and legislation enforcement in Washington must be afforded entry to expertise that may assist cut back rushing and thus save lives. HB 1596 would just do that.
