Traffic stops still seem to happen to those of color more often than their white counterparts, according to recently obtained data presented to lawmakers. And this is why advocates are pushing for more aggressive standards for pulling people over when alleged infractions are observed. People of color are said to be pulled over twice as much as those who are white. The disparity apparently doesn’t stop with traffic stops either. It carries over to searches too, especially for Native Americans. Under the proposed Traffic Safety for All Act, law enforcement personnel would be barred from stopping drivers solely for non-moving violations, i.e. expired tabs or seatbelt violations. This, it is believed, would lower disparity in traffic stops because it would reduce an officer’s discretion to initiate a traffic stop. Unfortunately, the Act has stalled and will not be revisited in 2026. Presumably, disparities in traffic stops will thus remain until such time as action literally is taken to prohibit it.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of traffic allegations immediately contact a Seattle Traffic Attorney. A Seattle Traffic Attorney is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Traffic Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their traffic charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a traffic infraction, misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Traffic Lawyer as soon as possible. Traffic related charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone cited with a traffic violation in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Traffic Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
