Washington § 46.32.060 - Moving defective vehicle unlawful — Impounding authorized.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.32.060 — Moving defective vehicle unlawful — Impounding authorized., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.32.060. Moving defective vehicle unlawful — Impounding authorized.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or move, or for any owner to cause or permit to be operated or moved upon any public highway, any vehicle or combination of vehicles, which is not at all times equipped in the manner required by this title, or the equipment of which is not in a proper condition and adjustment as required by this title or rules adopted by the chief of the Washington state patrol.
Any vehicle operating upon the public highways of this state and at any time found to be defective in equipment in such a manner that it may be considered unsafe shall be an unlawful vehicle and may be prevented from further operation until such equipment defect is corrected and any peace officer is empowered to impound such vehicle until the same has been placed in a condition satisfactory to vehicle inspection. The necessary cost of impounding any such unlawful vehicle and any cost for the storage and keeping thereof shall be paid by the owner thereof. The impounding of any such vehicle shall be in addition to any penalties for such unlawful operation.
The provisions of this section shall not be construed to prevent the operation of any such defective vehicle to a place for correction of equipment defect in the manner directed by any peace officer or representative of the state patrol.
[ 1987 c 330 s 705; 1986 c 123 s 5; 1961 c 12 s 46.32.060. Prior: 1937 c 189 s 12; RRS s 6360-12.]

Notes

Construction—Application of rules—Severability—1987 c 330: See notes following RCW 28B.12.050.
Moving unsafe or noncomplying vehicle: RCW 46.37.010.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.32.060

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.32.060 cover?

Section 46.32.060 ("Moving defective vehicle unlawful — Impounding authorized.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 46.32.060?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.32.060" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 46.32.060 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.