Read about Washington's speeding laws and the consequences of getting a speeding ticket.
Most Washington drivers will, at some point, get a speeding ticket. This article explains how Washington's speed limits work and the penalties for a speeding violation.
How Do Washington's Speed Limit Laws Work?
Like most other states, Washington has two types of speeding laws: “absolute speed limits” and a “basic speeding law.” This article explains the differences between the two and the consequences of each type of violation. (Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 46.61.400 (2024).)
Washington's Basic Speeding Law
Washington’s basic speeding law prohibits driving at a “speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.” In other words, motorists must always drive at a safe speed. What a safe speed is will depend on the circumstances. For instance, driving 55 miles per hour might be safe on a bright, sunny day. But if it’s dark and the road is icy, going 55 miles per hour could be dangerous and a violation of the basic speeding law.
Washington's Absolute (Maximum) Speed Limits
There is no trick to how Washington’s absolute speed limits work: If the absolute speed limit is 40 miles per hour and you drive faster than 40 miles per hour, you’ve violated the law.
Washington’s absolute speed limits prohibit driving faster than:
- 60 miles per hour on state highways
- 25 miles per hour on city and town streets
- 25 miles per hour when passing school or playground crosswalks, and
- 15 miles per hour on country roads.
Speeding Ticket Penalties in Washington
Generally, a speeding citation will cost you up to $250 in fines and an additional $17 in fees. However, the maximum fine is doubled for speeding violations in school and playground crosswalks.
Reckless Driving and Other Possible Charges in Washington
Depending on the circumstances, speeding could lead to a “reckless driving” conviction. Washington defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” And if a speeding violation leads to the death of another person, vehicular homicide charges are possible.