Seattle (July 16, 2024) – Today, the Seattle City Council voted to adopt anti-street racing legislation introduced by Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison and sponsored by Seattle City Councilmembers Bob Kettle and Tanya Woo.
The ordinance creates a new traffic infraction of $500 for registered owners involved in racing and classifies the crime as a reckless driving gross misdemeanor, in line with state law.
The ordinance also includes provisions that increase fines for subsequent infractions, as well as a possible civil infraction fine for spectators of these events.
City Attorney Davison today responded to the Council vote:
“It is essential that we address the growing problem of illegal street racing, intersection takeovers, and the other negative aspects of this problematic conduct,” said City Attorney Davison. “Thanks to the Council’s vote, now our police officers will have some very important tools that will allow them to address the problem on the street, and my Office will do everything possible to appropriately see the cases through so we can make a meaningful impact on those who take part in these dangerous activities.” – Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison