WA HB1518

Establishes a presumption of negligence against major motor vehicle operators in collisions with pedestrians, bicycles, or minor motor vehicles, and against minor motor vehicle/bicycle operators in collisions with pedestrians

Defendants may rebut the negligence presumption by proving by preponderance of evidence they were not negligent or their negligence did not cause the collision

Prevailing plaintiffs entitled to actual damages plus $1,500 in statutory damages; attorney fees recoverable if defendant unsuccessfully disputes the presumption

Punitive damages available against defendants with three or more prior civil or criminal liability findings for collisions involving pedestrians, cyclists, or minor motor vehicle operators

"Major motor vehicle" defined as self-propelled device weighing 200+ pounds or capable of speeds exceeding 28 mph; "minor motor vehicle" covers lighter/slower motorized devices