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Is negligent driving in the 2nd degree considered a misdemeanor in Washington state?

I got pulled over for negligent driving the other day, and I’m really scared about how this will look. I’d rather not start adding permanent marks to my record now! What is negligent driving in the second degree?

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Negligent driving in the second degree is not considered a misdemeanor in Washington state. Neg 2, as it’s often called, is not a criminal offense; it’s simply a
traffic infraction
.
Similar to getting a speeding ticket, you won’t have to serve jail time and the charge won’t appear on your criminal record. If you’d like to fight the charge anyway, you can hire a traffic court lawyer at your own expense.
Negligent driving in the first degree, however, is considered a misdemeanor. This means that it is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a hefty fine, or a number of other punishments. To be charged with Neg 1, a person must:
  • Endanger or be likely to endanger another person or property
  • Have consumed alcohol or illegal drugs prior to operating the vehicle
It can be hard to find affordable car insurance after a negligent driving charge, but the
Jerry
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