WFCN –
In order to keep everyone safe on Washington State’s highways, drivers must comply to several regulations when driving at night, which can be quite challenging.
Everyone, from first-time drivers to seasoned commuters, must familiarize themselves with these night traffic laws for their own safety and to ensure compliance. Everyone behind the wheel should be aware with these five Washington state traffic statutes that apply at night:
1. Auto Headlights Needed
When driving in Washington, you must use your headlights from the time the sun goes down until the time it comes up, or whenever visibility is low. Please take note of the following:
Between the hours of sunset and sunrise, as well as in times of low visibility (500 feet or less) caused by elements like rain, fog, or snow, headlights must be activated.
Always use caution when driving in low-light rural areas, and turn them down when you’re within 500 feet of another vehicle or other cars.
2. Lights Necessary for Braking and Taillights
Having fully operational brake lights and taillights is crucial for visibility and safety, particularly when driving at night:
You are required to turn on your taillights from the time the sun goes down until the sun comes up in order for other drivers to see your car.
For the safety of other drivers on the road, your brake lights should turn on whenever you press down on the brake pedal.
3. Limits on Speed and Decreased Visibility
At night, speed limits are especially important in places where visibility is poor:
Day and nighttime speed restrictions are the same, so be sure to pay attention to the signs.
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If you want to keep control of your car and be ready for anything that comes your way, you should slow down when visibility is low. This applies to bad weather, dim lighting, or road hazards.
4. Drunk driving and legal requirements
Operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol is punishable by law in Washington:
A BAC of 0.08% or below is considered legally intoxicating in the state of Washington. The 0.04% restriction is for commercial drivers.
Nobody Under the Age of 21 May Operate a Motor Vehicle with Any Inhibited Substances: A Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limit of 0.00% Is Required.
5. Safety for Pedestrians and Laws Regarding Crosswalks
Driving at night is extremely dangerous for pedestrians, therefore drivers are required to stop at crosswalks so that pedestrians can cross safely:
Never pass a pedestrian at a crosswalk, whether it is clearly posted or not, and do so at all times, including at intersections and midblocks.
Be extra careful around pedestrians at night, when it could be harder to see them. Increase your visibility with headlights and be ready to stop if necessary.
Final Call
Boost your own and other drivers’ safety on Washington State’s roads by studying up on the state’s regulations regarding nighttime travel.
Following these rules will make sure you’re in accordance with the law and will encourage everyone to drive safely, especially at night, whether you’re in a city or out in the country. When driving at night, it is especially important to be well-informed, cautious, and responsible so that you and other drivers can avoid danger.