Looking to access Washington DUI records? Conducting a background check or interested in someone’s driving history? Washington State provides various online resources that enable individuals to easily search for DUI records. One of these resources is a comprehensive search engine that allows you to retrieve information on cases filed in municipal, district, superior, and appellate courts across the entire state. However, it’s important to note that these search results do not provide access to a person’s complete criminal record. For that information, you will need to contact the specific court where the case was filed or the Washington State Patrol.
Key Takeaways:
- Accessing Washington DUI records is possible through online resources.
- Search engines provide information on cases filed in various courts across the state.
- To obtain a complete court record, contact the specific court or Washington State Patrol.
- Online search results may not include a person’s complete criminal record.
- Background checks require thorough verification and multiple sources of information.
Understanding DUI Laws in Washington
In the state of Washington, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that is defined as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. This includes both legal and illegal substances, such as prescription medication and over-the-counter drugs. The state follows a strict BAC (blood alcohol content) limit to determine if a driver is impaired.
If a driver’s BAC is .08 or higher, they will be charged with a DUI. However, it is important to note that even if the BAC is below .08, a driver can still be arrested if their behavior shows signs of impairment. This means that if you’re driving erratically or exhibiting other signs of being under the influence, an officer can arrest you for a DUI, regardless of your BAC.
It is important to be aware that there are different limits for drivers under the age of 21. In Washington, the BAC limit for underage drivers is .02, significantly lower than the standard limit for individuals who are of legal drinking age. This stricter limit reflects the state’s commitment to preventing underage DUI incidents and ensuring the safety of young drivers.
DUI Penalties in Washington
| DUI Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense (BAC below .15) | Fines up to $5,000, license suspension for 90 days to 1 year, mandatory DUI education program, possible ignition interlock device |
| First Offense (BAC above .15) | Fines up to $5,000, license suspension for 1 to 2 years, mandatory DUI education program, ignition interlock device required |
| Second Offense (within 7 years) | Fines up to $5,000, license suspension for 2 to 3 years, mandatory DUI education program, ignition interlock device required |
| Third Offense (within 7 years) | Felony charge, fines up to $10,000, license suspension for 3 to 4 years, mandatory DUI education program, ignition interlock device required |
These penalties are subject to change depending on the circumstances of the DUI offense and the individual’s prior history of DUI convictions. It is crucial to understand the gravity of DUI charges in Washington and the potential consequences that can result from driving under the influence.
DUI Statistics in Washington
When looking at DUI statistics in Washington, it is clear that driving under the influence poses a significant threat to the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. In 2017, there were a total of 178 driving fatalities attributed to DUI/DWI, with 20 of those fatalities involving drivers under the age of 21.
Additionally, during the same year, law enforcement officers caught a staggering 25,392 DUI/DWI offenders in the state, and 167 of those individuals were under the age of 18.
In 2018, the number of driving fatalities due to DUI/DWI decreased slightly to 166, with 13 fatalities involving drivers under the age of 21. However, the number of DUI/DWI offenders caught increased to 27,632, with 152 of them being under the age of 18.
These statistics highlight the importance of addressing the issue of DUI in Washington. By understanding the severity of the problem and its impact on public safety, we can work towards implementing effective measures and raising awareness to prevent further tragedies on the roads of Washington County.