Physical Control
In Washington State, the crime of Physical Control has essentially the same consequences as a DUI conviction.
Why Physical Control rather than DUI?
Physical Control is the more appropriate charge when an officer sees a person stopped, rather than actively driving. It has to do with a person’s ability to exert control over their vehicle.
For a free consultation call (360) 792-1000. In DUI and Physical Control cases, we have a 96% success rate in resolving them as a dismissal or reduction of charges.
The Elements Are Not Defined
The Statute (RCW 46.61.504) does not exactly define the elements of Physical Control. Courts have been known to use the definition that the defendant “is in a position to physically regulate and determine movement of the vehicle.”
The most common scenario is when a person decides to stop driving and either wait out their impairment or sleep it off. People will pull over to the side of the road or pull into a parking lot. Often, people go to sleep. Following an arrest based on these facts, Courts determine that people sleeping in their cars with the engine running are in physical control of the vehicle.
Affirmative Defense of “Safely Off The Roadway”
There is a Statutory Defense to Physical Control. If a defendant can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that they moved the vehicle safely off the roadway, that is a complete defense to the charge.
So, what constitutes “safely off the roadway”?
The definition is left to the trier of fact, meaning the jury. The legal community (meaning prosecutors and defense) typically believes that a safely off the roadway defense has merit when the defendant has moved the vehicle off of the roadway and it presents no present danger to the community.
The defense can even be present when the engine is running. This is a broad idea of the defense and most fact patterns are different, but the defense is often available if the defense attorney knows what to look for. It can mean the difference between a conviction and a not guilty verdict.
To learn more about safely off the roadway click here
Get The Best Possible Defense Attorney For Your Physical Control Case
We have handled hundreds, if not thousands, of these cases. We provide defense in Kitsap and Thurston Counties as well as cities nearby. We are here for you 7 days a week for a free consultation regarding your Washington DUI or Physical Control case. 360-792-1000.
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