The Yakima Police Department recently highlighted the legal requirement in Washington State for vehicles, especially trucks, to have mud flaps or splash guards covering the full width of their rear tires. This law, outlined in RCW 46.37.500, aims to prevent rocks, mud, and debris from being thrown onto other vehicles. An exception exists for motor vehicles that are at least 40 years old or street rods used primarily as collector’s items, which do not need fenders when driven in fair weather on well-maintained roads.

Despite this legal requirement, many vehicles, including those observed in a local parking lot, lack mud flaps, and enforcement appears rare. The author personally discovered their truck was not equipped with mud flaps and plans to purchase some to comply with the law and avoid potential tickets. The article encourages drivers to check their vehicles to ensure they meet the state’s mud flap regulations.