DC's new traffic laws increase fines, make 30 mph over speed limit a criminal offense
WASHINGTON (ABC7) — In the District, new laws are going into effect to increase fines for driving violations and to create 11 new traffic infractions. Under the new laws, driving 30 miles per hour or more over the speed limit is now a criminal offense.
It’s all part of DC’s new Vision Zero Regulations. The city has set a goal of eliminating all traffic deaths by 2024.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser pushing for $500 speeding tickets, 15 mph speed limits in some areas
The fine for driving more than 25 mph over the speed limit increases from $300 to $400 on freeways and interstates and $500 on city streets.
Drivers who overtake another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk or at an intersection for a pedestrian will be subject to a $500 fine.
Vision Zero also creates designated “Safe Zones” with speed limits of 15 mph for roads next to "school facilities and grounds serving youth" as well as "a playground, recreational facility, pool, athletic field, or senior center designated by official signs.”
Fines are also increasing for violations of right-turn-on-red, including failure to yield right of way to pedestrians.
The new laws also increase fines for failure to yield to bicyclists, transit buses, and emergency vehicles.
