The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 29 people die every day in traffic accidents involving drunk drivers. That equates to about one impaired driving-related death every 50 minutes.
When intoxicated drivers get behind the wheel, they jeopardize their lives and put the safety of everyone else on the road at risk. Experienced accident attorney Marya Fuller understands the hardships faced by accident victims and is committed to helping those injured by drunk drivers.
Depending on the details of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial losses. Fuller & Fuller, Attorneys at Law can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
When Is a Driver Considered Under the Influence in Washington?
In Washington, drivers are generally considered to be operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, or marijuana, if:
- The driver has a breath-alcohol level of 0.08 or higher
- The driver has a blood-alcohol count (BAC) of 0.08 or higher
- The driver has a THC blood concentration of 5.0 or higher
Following a crash, your car accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of your wreck. Police reports will be requested and assessed. Witness testimony may be used to establish the driver was swerving, slurring, or otherwise indicating impaired driving. If available, video or photographs may be used to demonstrate the cause of the crash.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving
While the legal BAC limit is 0.08, visual acuity, awareness, reaction time, and judgment can all be adversely affected before being legally drunk. Some of the most common consequences of drunk driving include:
- Accidents caused by running a stop sign or red light
- Rear-end accidents
- Accidents involving excess speed
- Sideswipe crashes
- T-bone accidents
- Head-on collisions
What Damages Can I Recover After A Crash with a Drunk Driver?
Depending on the details of your case, you may be able to pursue the following damages following a collision with a drunk driver:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
In the most tragic cases, a drunk driving accident results in death. If you lost someone you love because of a drunk driver, you may be able to seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, and other damages in a wrongful death claim.
What Should I Do After a Drunk Driving Accident?
Following any vehicle collision, your top priority is to seek medical attention for your injuries. If possible, speak with witnesses, exchange information with the driver, and take photographs.
You may notice indications of intoxication when interacting with the other driver. These signs may include:
- A red or flushed facial appearance
- Difficulty with fine motor skills
- Swaying, stumbling, and difficulty standing
- Dazed or blank expression
- Glossy or bloodshot eyes
- Slurred speech
- The smell of alcohol on the driver’s breath
If you notice any signs of intoxication, inform the police when they arrive at the scene. The officer may conduct a breathalyzer test or field sobriety test to determine if the at-fault driver is impaired. These test results should be documented in the police report, as well as any citations or arrests that are made.
Then you should contact an attorney to discuss your rights. Personal injury claims are completely separate from DUI charges the at-fault driver may face. DUI charges are dealt with in criminal court, while personal injury claims are civil matters. A car accident attorney can help to investigate your wreck, build a compelling case on your behalf, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Call Our Olympia Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision with a drunk driver, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Experienced car accident lawyer Marya Fuller can discuss your rights and explain all of your legal options.
See what our clients say about us.
Please call (800) 570-4878 today for an initial consultation. Fuller & Fuller, Attorneys at Law serves clients throughout Washington, including Olympia, Tacoma, and other nearby areas.
