Tacoma Attorneys Assist Drunk Driving Accident Victims
Pursing full compensation after DUI crashes throughout Washington
Drunk driving accidents are declining across the nation, but Washington continues to score above the national average when it comes to the percentage of driving fatalities in which alcohol impairment played a role. Since 1959, the vehicle accident attorneys at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, LLP have fought for victims of drunk drivers. Our experienced legal team focuses all our resources in an effort to obtain the maximum compensation possible.
Drunk driving and liability for traffic accidents
It is theoretically possible for a person to drive drunk, get into a traffic accident and yet not be responsible for the damage. A sober driver may have run a red light or performed some other unsafe maneuver. However, given society’s attitude toward drinking and driving, the sober driver is going to get the benefit of the doubt, unless there is clear and convincing evidence to the contrary. Despite Washington’s laws on comparative negligence, a finding that a driver was legally impaired is often tantamount to finding liability.
What should you do if the driver who hit you was drinking?
In the normal course of a non-injury accident, the drivers would move their cars to a safe location and exchange identifying information, including insurance documentation. But when one of the drivers appears intoxicated, it’s best for the sober driver not to engage. Instead:
- Stay in your car.
- Call the police on your cell phone.
- Record the license plate number of the other vehicle.
- Wait for the police to arrive and inform them of your suspicions.
If you or someone in your vehicle sustains an injury, it becomes even more crucial not to engage the drunk driver. Your justifiable anger may distract you from your most important task at hand: getting medical assistance for the injured party. Follow the steps cited above — requesting an ambulance when you call the police — and provide first aid to your injured party as you wait for help.
Contact our Tacoma accident attorneys for representation in your drunk driving crash case
If a drunk driver injured you or a loved one, Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, LLP is ready to help. Our seasoned car accident attorneys will evaluate your case for free. To schedule a consultation, call us at 253-383-5388 or contact our office online.
