Last month the Tappet Clatter printed what was identified as current fines for traffic violations. That piece came from the internet and was false. Normally we don't print material from the internet because to much of it is erroneous.  Upon some research the message originated early this year as "New California Traffic Laws For 2007." This is from http://www.snopes.com/politics/traffic/california.asp, a website that can be used to verify a lot of questionable emails that fill all of our in boxes on a daily basis. Also included is a link that will take you to the actual Washington State penalty schedule for traffic fines. You can also read the Washington State Patrol's response to the question about texting, while driving, on their site at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/newsfaqs/faqs.htm#violate.  The hands free cell phone law does not take effect until July 1, 2008. The text messaging, while driving, takes effect January 1, 2008.

The following web page has a highlighted section that warns us not to take the recent e-mails going around seriously. They do NOT pertain to Washington. Our new fee schedules begin next year (both in January and in July). That doesn't mean that we should not use common sense while driving.
(http://www.wsp.wa.gov/newsfaqs/faqs.htm#violate)
(http://www.courts.wa.gov/content/PublicUpload/InfractionPenalties/20_Total Penalty Schedule.doc)

The Washington State Patrol remains committed to achieving excellence in public safety by striving to improve in professionalism and service to the public. To review frequently asked questions select a category or browse the page to view answers:
Commercial Vehicles and Regulations-Concealed Weapons and Reciprocity-Motorized Scooters-EPAMD-Public Records and Background Checks-Travel, Traffic, and Driving Conditions-Troopers and Career Information-Vehicles, Inspections, and Equipment-Violations, Fines, and Collision reports-Washington Laws: Seat Belt, DUI, RCW.

If you cannot find the answer you are looking for or have additional questions, please contact WSP at questions@wsp.wa.gov.  For those who don't want to look up information on the internet here are some answers to some frequently asked questions:

• Can I travel in the left lane of traffic all of the time?
  NO. The law reads "stay to the right except to pass." Signs are posted.
  
• Can I use medians on I-5 and I-90 to turn around when traffic backs up?
  NO. The infraction for driving through a median carries a minimum fine of $388. Only DOT maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles are allowed in the medians. See RCW 46.61.150 .
  
• Do I have to use my turn signal every time I make a lane change?
  YES. See RCW 46.61.305.
  
• What do I do if I approach an intersection and the signals are not working?
  An intersection with a non-functioning light should be treated as an all-way stop. Unless you are directed by a flagger, police officer, or firefighter, you must stop and yield to the vehicle on the right or to oncoming traffic if you are preparing to turn left.
  
• Can children ride in the back of pickup trucks?
  Yes, provided there are no seats available in the cab. If adults are occupying the passenger seats, they are required to ride in back so children can ride up front.
  
• What is a VIN inspection and when am I required to have one done?
  

• How much can I haul?
  An axle spacing chart can be found in RCW 46.44.041