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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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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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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly newsletter.

Negligent Driving 1st or 2nd Degree

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter.

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter.

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter...

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter.

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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.

Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter.

Motorcycles-Do’s and Don’ts

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.

Kylin Landry
Kylin Landry
2021-10-04
Gotten many tickets dropped or the charge reduced to a non moving violation. Yes it would be great if they all could be dropped but at the end of the day my insurance is still affordable. Anyone leaving bad reviews about the Merrill's not getting a charge totally dismissed did not listen or read well enough when entering the contact as they make it very clear that both are a possibility.
Doza m
Doza m
2021-09-23
Took care of it just like Rick said he would. Will definitely use him again in the future if needed.
Bri Adams
Bri Adams
2021-09-15
Rick Merrill was very responsive and easy to work with, handled my case perfectly and got me the result I was after. Definitely recommend him for any of your needs.
Roman Empire
Roman Empire
2021-09-15
Kind and professional people. Will definitely be coming back!
Abraham Tewldeberham
Abraham Tewldeberham
2021-09-12
I want to start off by saying they have helped my family out tremendously. Their professionalism, efficiency and outstanding communication skills made our case a whole lot easier to understand and deal with.
Sylvia Magnusson
Sylvia Magnusson
2021-09-09
Very Nice team to work with. Professional and compassionate. Will definitely recommend to anyone in need.

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 read more of our On The Road series

Want To Hear More From us.

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Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter.