SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 279

BYRepresentatives Gallagher, Doty, Walk, Schmidt and P. King; by request of  Department of Licensing

Extending the time required for filing a security deposit under the financial responsibility provisions of the motor vehicle code.

House Committe on Transportation

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 24, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Peterson, Chairman; Hansen, Vice Chairman; Tanner, Vice Chairman; Bailey, Barr, Bender, DeJarnatt, Garrett, Halsan, Johnson, Nelson, Patterson, Sellar, von Reichbauer.

Senate Staff:Cathy Mayo (786-7304)

                  March 25, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, MARCH 24, 1987

BACKGROUND:

Drivers or owners of vehicles subject to state registration laws involved in an accident within the state resulting in personal injury or death, or property damage of $300 or more may be required to file a deposit of security.  The deposit of security is in an amount determined by the Department of Licensing to cover damages and injuries resulting from the accident.  The security may be in the form of a bond or policy issued by an insurance company or surety company authorized to do business in Washington.

If the requested security is not deposited within ten days of the notification, the Department shall suspend the driver's license of each driver involved in the accident who fails to file a requested security deposit, as well as the owner of each vehicle registered in the state who fails to file a requested security deposit, and driving privileges for the nonresident who fails to file a requested security deposit.

The Department has indicated that there is a conflict between two sections of the RCW regarding the established time limits for a person to deposit the requested security after notification from the Department and for the completion of the financial responsibility process.  The Department is utilizing the guidelines set forth in RCW 46.29.070 and feels that RCW 46.29.110 should be brought into conformity with the other section.

SUMMARY:

The allowable time for filing security with the Department of Licensing following an accident is extended to sixty days from the date notice was mailed by the Department.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Wayne Roice, Department of Licensing