Caught Speeding Too Often? This State Could Allow Your Vehicle to Enforce Traffic Laws | Carscoops

      If HB1596 is approved, Washington would become the second state to implement an alternative for individuals convicted of speeding.

      Washington State is deliberating a proposed bill that would allow drivers facing license suspension to continue driving.

      These drivers would need to consent to have a speed-limiting device installed in their vehicles.

      If enacted, Washington would join Virginia in providing such an option for speeding offenders.

      From 2019 to 2024, there was a 200 percent rise in speeding tickets for those driving 50 mph or more over the limit in Washington State, according to Shelly Baldwin from the state's traffic safety commission. To combat this, the state has developed a plan to let speeders continue driving provided they agree to use an in-car speed limiter.

      Individuals with suspended licenses could be permitted to drive with a "speed-restricted" license if House Bill 1596 is enacted. The technology would utilize GPS to cap the vehicle's speed to the legal limit. Drivers would have the option to override the limiter up to three times each month but could face additional penalties for doing so. There would also be a misdemeanor charge for anyone found tampering with the speed-limiting device.

      The bill recognizes that a significant number of people with suspended licenses continue to drive. According to the American Motor Vehicle Administration, over 70 percent of individuals with suspended licenses drive during their suspension period. The legislation aims to leverage technology to allow these individuals to drive while minimizing speeding, thereby improving road safety and encouraging safer driving behaviors.

      Importantly, the proposed limiters are active, meaning they would physically prevent drivers from exceeding a programmed speed, rather than merely providing a warning. As noted by the Washington Standard, the local traffic safety commission advocates for such technology to be present in all vehicles, regardless of the driver.

      It remains uncertain whether those currently under suspension would qualify for the program if the law is passed. Those convicted of exceeding the speed limit by 20 mph or more might have the opportunity to access this agreement, contingent on meeting certain conditions. If the bill is approved, Washington would join Virginia in offering this alternative for speeding offenders.