Washington State Proposes Speed Limiting Devices for Repeat Speeders
Legislative effort aims to curb rising traffic fatalities linked to speeding
Overview of House Bill 1596
A new bill introduced in the Washington state legislature seeks to mandate that drivers with a record of excessive speeding have speed limiting devices installed in their vehicles.
House Bill 1596 was proposed in response to growing concerns about the alarming rate of fatal accidents attributed to speeding.
Mechanics of the Speed Limiting Device
The proposed legislation mandates the installation of an “intelligent speed assistance device” in the cars of certain offenders. This device utilizes GPS technology to strictly monitor and maintain the vehicle’s speed according to posted speed limits. While it is designed to keep drivers within legal limits, the legislation does allow for limited exceptions, permitting drivers to exceed the speed limit up to three times per month.
Conditions for Device Installation
Under this bill, a new restricted license would be issued to drivers who are required to have the device installed, similar to the conditions surrounding ignition interlock devices for individuals with prior drunk driving offenses. Additionally, drivers could also be mandated to use speed-limiting devices during probation periods following license suspensions due to racing or “excessive speeding,” which the bill defines as driving at least 20 miles per hour over the speed limit. Courts would also have the authority to order the installation of these devices in certain cases.
Support for the Bill
Representative Mari Leavitt, a prominent supporter and Democratic sponsor of the bill, expressed the urgency of addressing this issue. “We’re losing Washingtonians and family members are losing loved ones unnecessarily, tragically and preventably,” Leavitt stated. She emphasized that the rising number of fatalities on roads is primarily due to individuals making conscious decisions that jeopardize public safety. “These aren’t accidents; they’re intentionally folks choosing behavior that is harming and often killing folks,” she added.
Rising Statistics of Fatal Crashes
According to data released by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, speeding significantly contributes to traffic fatalities in the state. In 2023, one in three fatal crashes involved a speeding driver. The statistics reveal a troubling trend; both total fatal crashes and those specifically involving speeding have steadily increased since 2019. Shelly Baldwin, a representative from the safety commission, indicated that the issuance of tickets for drivers exceeding the speed limit by 50 miles per hour has surged by 200% between 2019 and 2024, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Opposition and Questions Raised
Despite the bill’s intention to improve public safety, some lawmakers express skepticism about its effectiveness. Republican state Representative Gloria Mendoza raised concerns about how the bill enhances safety while still allowing repeat offenders to drive. “So we’re trying to help them get back their license by giving them this tool,” Mendoza questioned, “So how is this helping save lives?”
Proponents Respond to Criticism
In response to the criticism, Rep. Leavitt defended the bill’s objective, stating, “We want to find a way for them to be able to drive lawfully, but safely.” She emphasized that the implementation of speed limiters would enable these drivers to operate their vehicles in a manner that adheres to speed regulations. “Having them on the road in a safe manner is going to save lives because they’re driving anyway, and they’re driving fast. And this device, these speed limiters, are going to ensure that they can’t exceed the limit,” Leavitt explained.
Next Steps for the Bill
As it stands, House Bill 1596 has not yet been scheduled for a vote out of the committee. As legislators continue to deliberate on this proposed legislation, the discussions surrounding the implementation of speed limiting devices for repeat speeders underscore crucial considerations about road safety and the balance between rehabilitation and regulation.
