Introduction
As Watershed enforcement patrols kick off, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) is increasing High Visibility Enforcement (HiVE) efforts around the Gorge Amphitheatre this weekend. The aim: curb serious injury and fatal crashes tied to the festival traffic surge.
What Are HiVE Patrols?
HiVE patrols are proactive enforcement operations designed to detect and deter dangerous driving behaviors using data‑driven deployment of resources like Aggressive Driving Apprehension Team (ADAT) vehicles, aircraft, and patrol units equipped with advanced speed‑measuring devices. This weekend’s operation spans Grant and Kittitas counties, timed to coincide with the three‑day Watershed country music festival, running Friday through Sunday.
According to Trooper Jeremy Weber from WSP District 6, the HiVE patrol aims to “contact collision‑causing violations … often seen during the influx of traffic in and out of the Gorge” during Watershed.
Targeted Violations: DUI, Speeding & Reckless Driving
Troopers will focus on several high‑risk violations linked to festival traffic, including:
- Driving under the influence (DUI) under RCW 46.61.502, which makes it a gross misdemeanor—up to one year in jail—if within two hours of driving a person’s blood or breath alcohol concentration is 0.08 or higher (or THC concentration is 5.00 ng/ml or higher), or if drugs impair driving ability.
- Reckless driving under RCW 46.61.500, defined as operating a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This offense carries a gross misdemeanor penalty—up to 364 days in jail, fines up to $5,000, and minimum 30‑day license suspension.
Offenses such as speeding, aggressive or distracted driving, seatbelt non‑use, and towing violations are also priority enforcement areas—behaviors which Trooper Weber has confirmed are especially prevalent during mass‑traffic events like Watershed.
Why These Patrols Matter
Eastern Washington roads near the Gorge experience heightened congestion and elevated crash risk during major festivals. With tens of thousands of visitors on I‑90, SR 281, Silica Road NW, and campground access roads, WSP’s goal is simple: reduce fatal and serious injury collisions by deterring risky choices. Using aviation, unmarked and marked cars with high‑tech speed detection, and ADAT units provides layered enforcement where it’s needed most.
Planning Ahead for Safe Travel
Trooper Weber encourages festivalgoers to plan ahead if they intend to use alcohol or cannabis:
- Secure a sober ride or designated driver
- Use rideshares or shuttle services if available
- Buckle up and avoid speeding or unsafe passing
Those who plan ahead are far less likely to encounter enforcement stops or face legal consequences.
Call to Action
If you’ve been stopped, arrested, or injured in a traffic incident related to enforcement near the Gorge Amphitheatre during Watershed, it’s essential to seek legal guidance promptly. Contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253‑720‑9304 for guidance on your legal matter.
Additional Resources
- Understanding RCW 9.41.327: Firearms in Washington – A breakdown of RCW 9.41.327, explaining legal restrictions on firearms in Washington State.
https://blanfordlaw.com/washington-rcw-9-41-327/ - Washington RPC 1.18: Duties to Prospective Clients – Explains attorney obligations and confidentiality duties to individuals who consult a lawyer but do not become clients.
https://blanfordlaw.com/washington-rpc-1-18-comments/ - Die Hard Crimes and Washington Law – Analyzes how crimes depicted in the Die Hard movies would be prosecuted under Washington law.
https://blanfordlaw.com/die-hard-crimes-washington-law/ - Kim v. Budget: Negligence in Washington – Reviews the case of Kim v. Budget and its impact on negligence law in Washington State.
https://blanfordlaw.com/kim-v-budget-negligence-washington/ - RCW 9.41.327: Firearms Legal Overview – Provides statutory interpretation and practical implications of Washington’s RCW 9.41.327 on firearm possession.
https://blanfordlaw.com/washington-rcw-9-41-327/
