OLYMPIA…Today the Senate unanimously passed Substitute Senate Bill 5469, a measure introduced by Sen. Linda Evans Parlette that would spare an intermediate driver from being put on probation if he or she is involved in a collision that results in a different driver being cited.  

Parlette, R-Wenatchee, introduced the bill at the request of several constituents. It would ensure that intermediate driver’s license holders involved in an accident would no longer be denied the lifting of their license restrictions if there was another party to the accident and the other party was cited in connection with the accident. 

“I fully support the intermediate driver’s license which has helped young drivers stay safe when they first get on the road,” said Parlette. “It just didn’t seem fair to punish young drivers who are not at fault in an accident. This bill corrects an oversight that’s had a negative effect on many young people and their families.”   

Washington law states that people under the age of 18 must complete a one-year intermediate licensing phase before they are issued a full driver’s license.  During the intermediate stage, drivers are prohibited from receiving citations of any sort.  This includes being cited for accidents, even if the accidents occurred through no fault of their own.  If a young driver receives such a citation, he or she is put on probation.  Multiple infractions will result in their license being suspended. 

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission and AAA Washington testified in favor of SSB 5469 when it came before the Senate Transportation Committee.  

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. 

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