Drive the
Speed limit

We are patient.

Data trends

Between 2014-2023, 33% of traffic fatalities in King County were due to a speeding driver.

Highways and major arterial roads like I-5 and SR 520 experience more speeding violations than residential roads.

In 2023, Seattle’s speed cameras recorded 10% more violations than the year before. 

The law

Washington has two types of speeding laws.

Basic Speed Limit – motorists must drive at speeds safe for the conditions. For example, 55 mph might be safe on a sunny day, but not a rainy one.

Absolute Speed Limit – motorists must not go over these speeds:   

  • 60 mph on state highways
  • 25 mph on city and and town streets
  • 25 mph when passing school or playground crosswalks
  • 15 mph on country roads 

The Penalty

In Washington, speeding fines range from around $105 to $500, depending on how fast over the speed limit you were driving.

Fines are doubled in school zones, playground crosswalks, and construction zones.

Speeding tickets may go on your driving record and can lead to higher insurance rates. Repeated offenses may result in license suspension.

How you can help

Keep an eye on speed limits – Regularly check road signs or refer to GPS apps that display the speed limit. Some apps can alert you when you’ve exceeded the speed limit.

Plan ahead – Leave early and avoid peak traffic times to lessen the temptation to speed.

Minimize distractions – Avoid using your phone and keep your eyes on the road to better gauge speed limits.

Adapt to road conditions – Slow down in poor weather conditions and heavy traffic flow. Always make sure to keep a safe distance from the driver in front of you.

Campaigns

Coming soon