Washington § 46.61.525 - Negligent driving — Second degree.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.61.525 — Negligent driving — Second degree., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.61.525. Negligent driving — Second degree.

(1)(a) 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.
(b) It is an affirmative defense to negligent driving in the second degree that must be proved by the defendant by a preponderance of the evidence, that the driver was operating the motor vehicle on private property with the consent of the owner in a manner consistent with the owner's consent.
(c) Negligent driving in the second degree is a traffic infraction and is subject to a penalty of two hundred fifty dollars.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "negligent" means the failure to exercise ordinary care, and is the doing of some act that a reasonably careful person would not do under the same or similar circumstances or the failure to do something that a reasonably careful person would do under the same or similar circumstances.
(3) Any act prohibited by this section that also constitutes a crime under any other law of this state may be the basis of prosecution under such other law notwithstanding that it may also be the basis for prosecution under this section.
[ 1997 c 66 s 5; 1996 c 307 s 1; 1979 ex.s. c 136 s 86; 1967 c 32 s 69; 1961 c 12 s 46.56.030. Prior: 1939 c 154 s 1; RRS s 6360-118 1/2. Formerly RCW 46.56.030.]

Notes

Rules of court: Negligent driving cases—CrRLJ 3.2.
Effective date—Severability—1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010.
Arrest of person involved in negligent driving: RCW 10.31.100.
Use of vessel in reckless manner or while under influence of alcohol or drugs prohibited: RCW 79A.60.040.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.61.525

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.61.525 cover?

Section 46.61.525 ("Negligent driving — Second degree.") 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 § 46.61.525?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.61.525" (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 § 46.61.525 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

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