Our team is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Having a Seattle car accident attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. We are here to listen, advise, and take decisive action to help you file a claim and seek justice.
The Shocking Numbers of Alcohol-Related Accidents
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC), 2022 saw the most fatalities on the state’s highways and roads since 1990. Initial reports from this period revealed that 745 individuals lost their lives, with hundreds of others injured.
Alcohol impairment is considered a leading risk factor in traffic fatalities. Between 2017 and 2021, 32% of traffic fatalities involved alcohol impaired drivers.
Here, you will find a glimpse of the data available for fatalities caused by alcohol-impaired driving in Washington State for 2023:
- Total fatalities related to drunk driving: 108
- Sex of responsible party: 83 male, 25 female,
- Race/ethnicity of responsible party: 3 white, 24 Hispanic, 3 Black, Other 11
- Leading age groups: 25 to 30-year-olds with 18 accidents, 21 to 24-year-olds with 15 accidents, 31 to 35-year-olds with 15 accidents, 36 to 40 year-olds 9 accidents
The data tells us that white males between the ages of 21 to 30 caused the most alcohol-related, fatal accidents in Washington State in 2023.
You Were Hurt. We Can Help.
Over $500 Million recovered for our past clients. Let us help YOU! Call 24/7 for your FREE injury consultation.
Why Is Drinking and Driving So Dangerous?
Drinking and driving is incredibly dangerous due to the profound effects that alcohol has on the human body and mind. These effects can severely impair an individual’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Understanding why drinking and driving is so perilous can help promote safer choices and prevent tragic consequences.
Impaired Judgment
One of the primary dangers of drinking and driving is impaired judgment. Alcohol consumption affects the brain’s ability to make sound decisions, often leading individuals to underestimate their level of intoxication and overestimate their driving abilities.
This impairment can result in reckless behaviors, such as speeding, ignoring traffic signals, and taking unsafe driving risks.
Reduced Reaction Time
Alcohol slows down the central nervous system, which significantly reduces reaction times. A driver under the influence may not be able to react quickly enough to avoid sudden obstacles, changing traffic conditions, or unexpected actions from other drivers.
This delay can be the difference between safely navigating the road and causing a severe collision.
Decreased Coordination
Driving requires a high level of coordination, including the ability to steer, brake, and accelerate smoothly. Alcohol impairs motor skills, making it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.
This lack of coordination can lead to swerving, inability to stay in a lane, and difficulty in executing turns or stopping the vehicle.
Blurred Vision
Alcohol consumption can also affect vision, causing blurred or double vision. Good vision is crucial for safe driving, allowing the driver to see road signs, other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards.
Impaired vision increases the likelihood of missing critical visual cues and makes it challenging to judge distances accurately.
Increased Risk-Taking
Alcohol lowers inhibitions, which can lead to increased risk-taking behaviors. Intoxicated drivers may engage in dangerous practices such as aggressive driving, tailgating, and running red lights.
These behaviors endanger the driver and pose significant risks to other road users.
Overconfidence
Another dangerous effect of alcohol is the false sense of confidence it can instill in drivers. Intoxicated individuals may feel more confident in their driving skills than they are, leading them to make poor and unsafe decisions on the road.
Fatigue
Alcohol consumption can induce drowsiness and fatigue, impairing a driver’s alertness and concentration. A tired driver is more prone to making mistakes, falling asleep at the wheel, and failing to respond appropriately to road conditions.
Drinking and driving is a deadly combination due to the various ways alcohol impairs cognitive and motor functions essential for safe vehicle operation. Understanding these risks shows the importance of making responsible choices and avoiding driving after consuming alcohol.
Your Legal Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident in Seattle
After a drunk driving accident in Seattle, it’s essential to know your rights. We are here to guide you through this process at Bernard Law Group.
If a drunk driver has hit you, you have the right to seek compensation. This can cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. Our Seattle drunk driving accident attorney can explain these rights to you.
Getting the Help You Need
First, know that help is here. Our drunk driving accident lawyers in Seattle know how to handle these complex cases. We’ve got your back from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
Understanding Compensation
Compensation after an accident is about more than just covering current bills. It’s about securing your future, too. This means considering ongoing medical care, any future earnings lost, and the impact on your quality of life. With our Seattle drunk driving accident attorney, you can feel confident we will work to ensure you recover the full compensation you deserve.
Taking Action Quickly
In Seattle, there are deadlines for filing a lawsuit after an accident. That’s why speaking with us as soon as possible is important. We will start working immediately to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
We’re Here for You
At Bernard Law Group, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with a drunk driving accident. That’s why our team, including a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer in Seattle, is committed to supporting you at every turn. Whether it’s understanding your rights, exploring your compensation options, or taking your case to court, we’re here to help you move forward.
What to Do After a Seattle Drunk Driving Accident
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident in Seattle, taking the right steps can significantly affect your case’s outcome. At Bernard Law Group, we guide you through what to do immediately following an accident to ensure your rights are protected.
Here’s a straightforward plan of action:
- Report the Accident: Call the police immediately. A formal police report is a crucial piece of evidence for your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries might not be immediately apparent, even if you feel fine. All medical records will be vital for your case.
- Document Everything: Take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, the other vehicle, any visible injuries, and anything relevant.
- Gather Witness Information: Get their contact information if there are any witnesses. Their testimonies can be invaluable.
- Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Seattle: The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start working on your case.
- Avoid Discussing the Accident: Don’t talk about the accident details with anyone but your attorney, especially not the other party’s insurance company.
Following these steps can help secure the evidence needed for a strong case. Our Seattle drunk driving accident attorneys are experienced in navigating the complexities of these cases.
Common Injuries in Seattle Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents in Seattle often lead to a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. The impact of these injuries can be long-lasting, affecting victims physically, emotionally, and financially.
Understanding the common types of injuries that occur in these accidents can help victims and their families prepare for recovery and seek appropriate compensation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
One of the most severe outcomes of a drunk driving accident is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs occur when a sudden jolt or blow to the head disrupts normal brain function.
Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments and can include headaches, memory loss, and even permanent brain damage. The long-term effects can be devastating, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are another devastating consequence of drunk driving accidents. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage.
Victims may face lifelong challenges, including loss of mobility, chronic pain, and the need for ongoing medical care and support. Rehabilitation and adaptive equipment can be costly, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life and financial stability.
Bone Fractures
Bone fractures are common in the high-impact collisions often seen in drunk driving accidents. Victims can suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones, which may require surgeries, casts, and physical therapy for proper healing.
While fractures may seem less severe than other injuries, they can still cause significant pain, disability, and financial burdens due to medical expenses and lost wages during recovery.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries, such as damage to organs and internal bleeding, are serious concerns in drunk driving accidents. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, making them particularly dangerous.
Immediate medical attention is crucial to identify and treat internal injuries promptly. Delayed treatment can result in severe complications or even death.
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are also prevalent in drunk driving accidents. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments.
Soft tissue injuries can include sprains, strains, and bruising. While these injuries may seem minor compared to others, they can still cause chronic pain and long-term discomfort, necessitating physical therapy and ongoing medical care.
Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, victims of drunk driving accidents often experience significant psychological trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common among those involved in severe accidents. Psychological trauma can affect a person’s ability to function in daily life and may require therapy and medication for treatment.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Seattle Drunk Driving Accident
In Seattle, drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries and damages. Determining liability in such cases is complex and may involve multiple parties.
Understanding who may be held responsible can help you as you pursue justice and compensation.
The Drunk Driver
The most obvious party liable in a drunk driving accident is the intoxicated driver. Under Washington State law RCW 46.61.502, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
If a driver violates this statute and causes an accident, they can be held criminally and civilly liable for any resulting injuries or damages. Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, and the revocation of driving privileges.
Alcohol-Serving Establishments
Another potentially liable party in a Seattle drunk driving accident could be the establishment that served alcohol to the driver. According to Washington State’s Dram Shop laws, outlined in RCW 66.44.200, a bar, restaurant, or any alcohol-serving venue can be held liable if they served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated or under the age of 21.
If it can be proven that the establishment’s actions directly contributed to the accident, the victim may pursue legal action against the business for damages.
Social Hosts
Washington State also extends liability to social hosts under certain conditions. If an individual hosts a social gathering and serves alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated or underage, and that person subsequently causes a drunk driving accident, the host could be held liable for resultant injuries or damages. This liability is more stringent if the intoxicated individual was a minor, as per RCW 66.44.270.
Vehicle Owners
In some cases, the owner of the vehicle involved in a drunk driving accident may be held liable, even if they were not driving at the time. Washington State laws state that if the owner knowingly allowed an intoxicated person to drive their vehicle, they can share liability.
This principle is based on negligent entrustment, which holds the vehicle owner responsible for putting others at risk by allowing an unfit driver to operate their car.
Employers
In scenarios where the drunk driver was performing work duties at the time of the accident, the employer could potentially be liable under the legal theory of “respondeat superior.” This doctrine holds employers responsible for their employees’ negligent actions if those actions occur within the scope of employment.
For example, if a delivery driver consumed alcohol and then caused an accident while making deliveries, the employer could be held accountable.
Drunk driving accidents in Seattle can involve complex liability issues. Washington State laws provide various avenues to hold multiple parties accountable. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone seeking justice and compensation for injuries and damages resulting from such accidents.
Proving Liability in a Seattle Drunk Driving Accident
When a drunk driver hits you, proving liability is necessary to recover compensation. At Bernard Law Group, we specialize in showing the facts.
Our Seattle drunk driving accident attorney works hard to prove that the other driver was at fault. We gather evidence, like police reports and witness statements, to build a strong case for you.
Gathering Critical Evidence
We know how to find the evidence that matters. This includes proof of the other driver’s intoxication, such as breathalyzer or blood test results, and documenting the accident scene. We collect all available evidence to support your claim.
Understanding the Legal Standards
In Seattle, if a driver is over the legal alcohol limit and causes an accident, they’re often considered negligent. But, proving this in court requires help from professionals. We explain how these legal standards apply to your case and what they mean for proving liability.
Fighting for You
At Bernard Law Group, proving liability is just the first step. We use all the evidence to fight for the compensation you deserve. We handle negotiations with the insurance companies so you can focus on recovery. You’re not alone in this fight with our Seattle drunk driving accident lawyer by your side.
Types of Compensation You May Recover in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim
Understanding the types of compensation available can help victims and their families navigate the legal process and ensure they receive the support they need.
Medical Expenses
One of the primary forms of compensation is for medical expenses. This includes coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments required due to the accident. Victims may also receive compensation for future medical care if ongoing treatment is necessary.
Lost Wages
Injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident can lead to missed work and lost wages. Compensation for lost wages covers the income victims would have earned had they not been injured. Additionally, if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability, victims may be entitled to compensation for future lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical pain and emotional distress experienced by the victim as a result of the accident. This category of damages considers the intensity and duration of the victim’s pain and suffering, including any psychological impact such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
Property Damage
Victims can also seek compensation for property damage incurred during the accident. This typically includes repairs or replacement of the damaged vehicle and any personal belongings inside the car at the time of the accident.
Loss of Consortium
Loss of consortium refers to the impact of injuries on the victim’s relationships with their spouse or family members. Compensation for loss of consortium aims to address the loss of companionship, support, and affection that loved ones experience due to the victim’s injuries.
Understanding the various types of compensation available in a drunk driving accident claim can help victims secure the financial support they need to recover and rebuild their lives. At Bernard Law Group, our attorneys are ready to provide accident victims with the help and guidance needed to ensure fair compensation is awarded.
Protecting Your Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
At Bernard Law Group, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a drunk driving accident can take on you and your loved ones. Our team is committed to providing unwavering support and legal representation from the moment you reach out to us.
By carefully following our guided steps and leveraging our comprehensive legal strategies, including meticulous evidence gathering and aggressive negotiation, we aim to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone. The Bernard Law Group is here to stand up for your rights and help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
FAQs About Drunk Driving Accidents in Seattle
How Can You Tell If You Are Intoxicated, and What Does the Law Say?
Determining whether you are intoxicated involves recognizing a range of physical and cognitive symptoms that result from alcohol consumption. Common signs of intoxication include:
- Impaired coordination
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Reduced inhibitions
- Poor decision-making
- Slower reaction times
- Flushed skin
- Glassy or bloodshot eyes
- Nausea
It’s crucial to understand that an individual might still be intoxicated even if they do not feel heavily impaired, as judgment and self-awareness are among the first faculties affected by alcohol.
Legally, intoxication is often measured by Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). A BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated for drivers aged 21 and over. The limit is typically lower for commercial drivers, often around 0.04%. Washington state has zero-tolerance laws for drivers under the legal drinking age, meaning any detectable BAC can result in penalties.
The law imposes strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI), including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment for severe offenses or repeat offenders. These measures are in place to protect all road users by discouraging impaired driving behaviors.
To avoid the dangers and legal consequences of intoxication, it is best to plan alternate transportation if you intend to drink, such as using a designated driver, public transportation, or ride-sharing services.
What Type of Accidents Do Drunk Drivers Often Cause?
Drunk drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in various types of accidents due to their impaired judgment, decreased reaction times, and compromised motor skills. Some of the most common types of accidents caused by drunk drivers include:
- Rear-End Collisions: Drunk drivers often have difficulty judging the speed and distance of other vehicles. This impairment can lead to rear-end collisions, where the intoxicated driver crashes into the vehicle in front of them due to a failure to stop in time.
- Head-On Collisions: Intoxicated drivers might drift out of their lane or drive the wrong way on a road, leading to head-on collisions. These types of accidents are particularly dangerous and often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the combined speed of both vehicles.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Drunk drivers may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the roadside. The impaired reaction time and lack of awareness increase the likelihood of hitting pedestrians, which can result in serious injuries or death.
- Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as T-bone collisions, these accidents occur when a drunk driver runs a red light or stop sign and crashes into the side of another vehicle. The sides of vehicles offer less protection, making side-impact collisions particularly harmful to the occupants of the struck vehicle.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: Drunk driving can also result in single-vehicle accidents, where the driver loses control and crashes into a stationary object like a tree, pole, or guardrail. These accidents can cause significant injuries to the drunk driver and any passengers.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: In cases where drunk drivers cause an initial collision, the chaos can lead to multi-vehicle pileups, especially on highways or busy streets. The impaired driver’s inability to control their vehicle properly can set off a chain reaction of crashes involving multiple cars.
Understanding the types of accidents commonly caused by drunk drivers underscores the severe risks and dangers associated with driving under the influence. It highlights the importance of making responsible choices and avoiding any form of impaired driving to ensure the safety of all road users.
Can I Recover Compensation If The Driver Who Caused My Accident Was Not Convicted of a DUI?
Yes, you can still recover compensation if the driver who caused your accident was not convicted of a DUI. The primary aspect of a personal injury claim is establishing the other driver’s negligence and demonstrating that their actions directly led to your injuries and damages. While a DUI conviction can be strong evidence of negligence, it is not a prerequisite for pursuing compensation.
In a civil case, the burden of proof is lower than in a criminal case. You only need to demonstrate that it is more likely than not that the other driver was responsible for the accident. This can be done through various forms of evidence, including, but not limited to, police reports, eyewitness testimonies, traffic camera footage, and expert analysis of the crash scene.
Even without a DUI conviction, you can claim compensatory damages that cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If you have sufficient evidence to support your claim, you may negotiate a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or proceed to court to seek a fair judgment.
What Penalties Will the Drunk Driver Who Hit Me Face?
The penalties a drunk driver faces can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the incident. Generally, individuals convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can expect to face both administrative and criminal consequences.
Administrative Penalties
These often include the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license, fines, and mandatory attendance in alcohol education or rehabilitation programs. The severity of these administrative actions can be influenced by factors such as prior DUI offenses and the driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of the incident.
Criminal Penalties
Criminal consequences are typically more severe, including substantial fines, community service, probation, and imprisonment. The length and nature of the criminal penalties depend on the severity of the accident, whether it resulted in injuries or fatalities, and the presence of any aggravating factors such as high BAC levels or previous DUI convictions. For instance, a DUI that results in serious bodily harm or death often leads to felony charges, which carry more substantial prison sentences.
Civil Liabilities
In addition to administrative and criminal penalties, the drunk driver may also face civil liabilities. Victims can file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. Even if the driver is not criminally convicted, they can still be held financially responsible in a civil court.
Mandatory Ignition Interlock Devices
In some situations, the individual may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicles. This device requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle can start, ensuring they cannot drive under the influence again during the probationary period.
Increased Insurance Premiums
Following a DUI conviction, the driver’s automobile insurance premiums are likely to increase dramatically. Some insurance companies may even refuse to cover the individual, requiring them to seek high-risk insurance providers.
How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Seattle Drunk Driving Accident Attorney?
The cost to hire a Seattle drunk driving accident attorney can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and the fee structure they use.
Most personal injury attorneys, including our team at Bernard Law Group, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you do not have to pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, the attorney will take a percentage of the settlement or court award as their fee. Typically, this percentage ranges from 25% to 40%, but it can vary depending on the specific attorney and the details of your case.
Additionally, it is important to inquire about any other potential costs associated with your case, such as court filing fees, obtaining medical records, and fees for expert witnesses. Some attorneys may cover these costs upfront and deduct them from your settlement, while others may require you to pay them as they arise.
It is advisable to discuss all fee arrangements and additional expenses during your initial consultation with the attorney to ensure you understand the total cost.
