118. Slap

As of July 1st, drivers in the state of Washing face higher penalties (but no criminal charge) when committing a traffic infraction--such as texting or speeding--that results in the serious injury or death of a vulnerable roader user (cyclists, pedestrians, moped'ers, etc.).  The new law sets a fine of $5000 and 90-day suspension of driving privileges that may be waived for 100 hrs of community service, completion of a safety course and a $250 fine.

"Ghost bicycle" at site of fatal accident

$5000 fine for recklessly killing someone?  Well, consider the previous penalty:


Writing 100 times on a blackboard: "I will never again maim or kill a cyclist or pedestrian."


Sometimes progress is measured in very small steps