Stealing traffic signs, cones, or other road equipment may seem like youthful fun, but the price tag on those often-government-owned items (not to mention the safety reasons why they’re there) can mean punishment that’s much more serious than many civilians realize.

Before you decide to lift that “Dangerous Curves” sign you always chuckle about with friends, read up on the law to find out how risky this behavior really is.

Stealing Signs is Just Theft

Though it may seem like a prank, traffic sign theft is actually just theft—and like with most instances of theft, the severity of the punishment is most often based on the value of the items stolen.

Traffic cones can cost anything from $30 to $250, depending on the size and weight, while lighted signs, barricades, and other barriers may cost upwards of $200. Which may not seem like much, but remember: Theft in the third degree, which is a gross misdemeanor, is defined as theft of any objects not exceeding $750. Go over that, and you’re looking at theft in the second degree, which is punished with a larger fine and more potential jail time.

Potential for Injury or Accident

In addition to the cost and inconvenience of replacing stolen signage, there’s also a real possibility that the theft could put drivers at risk.

Sure, some street signs may seem like a real trophy (the Sleater-Kinney Rd. sign is a popular target), but if the particular sign you’ve stolen is especially important or meaningful to the flow of traffic, you could be held responsible for more than just the theft.

Traffic cones, stop signs, or lighted barriers are placed to caution motorists about potential hazards on the road, and in their absence, it’s possible that accidents or even serious injuries may occur.

Really Want a Street Sign? Buy One!

Street signs are regularly phased out by cities—and the City of Seattle is no different! If you’d like to own a particular sign or piece of city infrastructure once it’s been retired, you can buy them directly from the City.

Signs go for as little as $5 after they’re retired, and the money goes back to the public funds.

If You’ve Been Charged with Theft in Seattle, Contact the Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers at Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws

The expert defense team at Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws, PLLC vigorously defend the rights of individuals facing a multitude of charges in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our online contact form to get more information or to get a free case review!