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What is negligent driving in the 1st degree?
I live in Seattle and my friend was recently charged with Neg 1, or negligent driving. I’ve never heard of that before and I want to learn more about the law. What is considered first-degree negligent driving?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear your friend has landed in some hot water!
Washington
defines negligent driving in the first degree as driving a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers property or other motorists while the driver is also exhibiting signs of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.Negligent driving isn’t a charge in every state, but all states have a similar charge. Unlike DUI, negligent driving doesn’t require you to have a blood alcohol content above 0.08 or to fail a field sobriety test. A first-degree negligent driving charge is entirely up to the discretion of the arresting officer.
In Washington, first-degree negligent driving is a misdemeanor that carries some stiff penalties—albeit they are less harsh than a DUI. If convicted, you face:
- Jail time of up to 90 days
- A fine of up to $1,000
- The installation of an interlock/breathalyzer on your vehicle
- Court-mandated drug and alcohol treatment
- Probation of up to 2 years
These penalties also don’t count the social, professional, and financial toll a charge like this can take. If arrested for Neg 1, hire an attorney immediately.
If you’re convicted of first-degree negligent driving, you’re likely to see your car insurance rates increase. But don’t overpay if you don’t need to. Instead, go to
Jerry
.Jerry is an insurance comparison app that shops for low prices with over 50 insurers for free. You will get quotes in seconds, and if you ever have any questions, agents are just a text away. The average Jerry user saves $887 a year on car insurance.
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