What is a Ticket?

A Ticket is a Civil Infraction

What is a ticket? It is a civil infraction that is issued by an officer. It can go on your driving abstract.

These are some examples :

  • Speeding
  • Negligent Driving 2nd degree
  • Personal Electronic Device
  • Fail to Yield
  • Improper Lane change
  • Fail to Signal
  • Speeding too fast for conditions

How does a Traffic Ticket affect you:

  • Appear on your Driving Abstract as a moving violation.
  • Can cause your insurance rates to go up.
  • Can add points to your license.
  • Will show on your record for 3 years.
  • May affect your job either now or in the future.

We Can Help You Fight Your Ticket!

Our Attorneys work to protect your record. We will:

  • Request all required documentation from the court.
  • Develop the best defense strategy for each individual infraction.
  • Address your ticket at the court hearing for you.
  • Confirm the outcome has been properly recorded in your docket.
  • Notify you of the outcome and any steps you need to do to complete the process.

How do you Hire Merrill Law to Represent You?

You will need to complete the client agreement form and pay the fee before Merrill Law will be able to represent you in court. Parent or Guardian Signatures are also required If the client is a minor.

Our legal team handles tickets during office hours.

How to get started.

  • Come in to the office during business hours or,
  • Call during business hours to have the form sent to you by Email, Fax or Mail.
  • Send a request for an agreement form via the website.

Regarding your Ticket

  • You must respond to the court with in the 15 calendar day time restriction.  
  • we can send the ticket to the court for you, if you bring it into the office in a timely manner.
  • If you intend to hire Merrill Law, we ask that you mark the contested hearing box, it is the 3rd box on the ticket, and mail the ticket directly to the court.  

We have pointed out come important areas to look for information on your ticket. There are a few different formats that may be issued.

Options on your ticket.

You have a three options to tell the court how you wish to address this matter.  You will find these options at the bottom of a white ticket or on the back of a green ticket.

  1. Enclose payment and mail the ticket directly to the court.  If you select this option, you should understand that the traffic infraction will go on your driving record.
  2. Request a Mitigation Hearing.  When you request this type of hearing you are agreeing that you have committed the infraction. The hearing allows you to explain the circumstances in which the violation occurred.  You will be required to to attend the hearing to present your case to the judge. The infraction will go on your record with a mitigated hearing.
  3. Request a Contested Hearing. A contested hearing is the preferred type of hearing if you are hiring Merrill Law. This type of hearing allows the details of the infraction to be challenged in court.

Please return the ticket to the court at the address noted on the 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.

Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter.

Your Driving Record

Your Driving Record

 According to the Washington State Department of Licensing  an abstract or copy of driving record, is “a history of violations, convictions, collisions, and departmental actions incurred by a driver over a period of time”.  

Types of Records

There are several different types of driving records that are available through the Washington State Department of Licensing.  Driving records are considered confidential and are only available to those parties who are authorized by law. They are not allowed to reveal the information contained on the record to a third party.

  • Complete record- contains convictions, violations, collisions, suspensions, revocations, and disqualifications, deferred prosecutions, and failures to appear.  Those who are allowed to get a complete record copy are individuals named on the record, attorneys, law and justice agencies and governmental agencies.
  • Insurance Abstract- contains the past 3 years of commercial and non commercial driving. This includes convictions, violations, collisions, and failures to appear.  Those who are allowed to obtain an insurance abstract are those individuals named on the record and insurance companies and their agents. This type of record is used to create and renew motor vehicle insurance policies.
  • Employment Record- contains convictions, violations, collisions, suspensions, revocations, disqualifications, deferred prosecutions, and failures to appear.  Those who are allowed to obtain an Employment Record are those individuals named on the driving record, employers and their agents and prospective employers and their agents.  This type of record is used to determine if a driver should be employed.
  • Alcohol/Drug assessment (up to 10 years)–Used by chemical dependency agencies

To get a copy of your driving record you can:

  • Visit any local Washington State Department of Licensing.  You will need to provide photo identification along with the $13.00 fee.  
  • Purchase online.  You will be required to provide the Washington State Driver’s license number, along with your social security number, and a credit/debit card to pay the $13.00 fee. 
  • Request by regular mail.  You would send the driving records request form along with a check or money order for the $13.00 fee.

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.

Infraction Continuance

What is a Continuance for an Infraction?

There is a chance that we will need to ask for an infraction continuance for your case.

A “Continuance” is a motion to the court to request that a new court hearing date be set. Continuances are normal and have no negative impact on the outcome of your case. This rescheduling process is approved and processed through the court.

There are multiple reasons why a motion to continue may be filed.

Examples can include:

  • Court calendar scheduling conflicts.
  • Perhaps we are waiting for the complete documentation that we have requested to build the defense for your case.
  • Negotiation for an improved outcome.
  • Time needed to allow you to complete a step to address the needs that have come to light.

How Many Times?

The number of times a case may be continued, depends on the court that the case is assigned to. The Judge that is presiding may also have limits in place. In some situations motions to continue may be allowed multiple times for a case. In other situations they may only be allowed one time.

We file the appropriate documents to allow the court to reset the case to a new hearing date. The court will then have a new 120 days to hold a hearing for the traffic infraction.

Do I Need To Worry About Infraction Continuance?

No. The new court date will be placed on our calendar, and we will address the new hearing on your behalf.

We will confirm the outcome for your infraction has been recorded as agreed in the Court docket. You will be notified of the details by mail.

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.

What is a CDL?

What is a CDL

A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is a special license that is required by the Washington State Department of Licensing, for those who drive any of the following types of vehicles: 

  • Vehicles with a manufacturer’s weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
  • Trailers with a manufacturer’s weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more and a combined vehicle gross weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
  • All vehicles designed to transport 16 or more people including the driver
  • All school buses
  • Vehicles used to transport any hazardous material.

For requirements related to obtaining a CDL see the Washington State Department of Licensing.

Protection is the Key

It is extremely important to protect a CDL from situations that can cause suspension, disqualification, revocation, or cancellation. 

Your CDL could be disqualified if you:

  • Commit 2 or more serious traffic offenses from separate incidents within a 3 year period. 
  • Receive a DUI conviction.
  • Have a suspension of your regular Washington State driver’s license.

Steps to reinstate a commercial driver’s license may include:

  • Retaking the knowledge and driving test
  • Fees 
  • Other Requirements as needed

Merrill Law helps protect those drivers who have commercial driver’s licenses.

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.

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.

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.

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