Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior is an iconic film set in a post-apocalyptic world where law and order no longer exist. The movie is packed with high-speed chases, violent confrontations, and reckless driving. But what if the events of this movie took place in Washington State? Here’s an analysis of the driving-related crimes depicted in Mad Max 2 and how they would be prosecuted under Washington law.

1. Reckless Driving

Violation: RCW 46.61.500 – Reckless Driving
Overview:
Reckless driving is a central theme in Mad Max 2. Characters frequently engage in dangerous driving, such as high-speed chases, swerving through traffic, and endangering others. Under Washington law, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” The chaotic scenes of vehicles crashing and exploding in the film would certainly be considered reckless driving, a gross misdemeanor that could lead to up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.

2. Vehicular Assault

Violation: RCW 46.61.522 – Vehicular Assault
Overview:
In the movie, drivers use their vehicles as weapons, intentionally crashing into others to cause harm. In Washington, vehicular assault occurs when someone drives recklessly and causes serious bodily harm to another person. The violent collisions in the film could result in vehicular assault charges, which is a Class B felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.

3. Hit and Run – Injury or Death

Violation: RCW 46.52.020 – Duty in Case of Injury or Death
Overview:
In Mad Max 2, drivers often flee the scene after causing accidents, leaving injured victims behind. Under Washington law, leaving the scene of an accident that results in injury or death is a serious offense. Failure to stop, provide aid, or exchange information is classified as a Class C felony, with penalties of up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

4. Vehicular Homicide

Violation: RCW 46.61.520 – Vehicular Homicide
Overview:
Throughout the film, several fatal accidents occur due to reckless driving. In Washington, vehicular homicide is charged when a driver’s reckless actions result in death. The fatalities caused by dangerous driving in the movie would likely lead to vehicular homicide charges, a Class A felony that could result in life imprisonment and a $50,000 fine.

5. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Violation: RCW 46.61.502 – Driving Under the Influence
Overview:
While the movie doesn’t show characters drinking or using drugs, the erratic and dangerous driving suggests impaired judgment. In Washington, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime. DUI is a gross misdemeanor, with penalties including jail time, fines, license suspension, and mandatory treatment programs.

6. Driving Without a License

Violation: RCW 46.20.005 – License Required
Overview:
In the lawless world of Mad Max 2, it’s unlikely that any of the characters have valid driver’s licenses. Driving without a license is illegal in Washington and can lead to fines, jail time, and restrictions on driving privileges.

7. Street Racing

Violation: RCW 46.61.530 – Racing of Vehicles on Highways
Overview:
The intense and dangerous driving scenes in Mad Max 2 resemble illegal street racing. In Washington, unauthorized racing on public highways is illegal and can result in fines, jail time, and vehicle impoundment. The movie’s depiction of high-speed, competitive driving would fall under this law.

Conclusion

Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior takes place in a world where the rule of law has broken down, but if its events occurred in Washington State, the characters would face serious legal consequences. From reckless driving and vehicular assault to hit-and-run and vehicular homicide, Washington’s legal system would be kept busy prosecuting these offenses. The movie is an exhilarating depiction of a dystopian future, but it also highlights the importance of law and order on the roads.

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