Drunk driving accidents in Seattle are a tragic and preventable occurrence. They shatter lives, causing pain and suffering to victims and their families. When you’re involved in such an accident, the repercussions can be severe, both physically and emotionally. Navigating the legal landscape while healing can be overwhelming.

At Bungay Law, our drunk driving accident lawyers are here to represent you if you have been involved in a drunk driving accident. We understand just how serious drunk driving crashes from impaired drivers can be. Our drunk driving accident attorneys will defend your rights.

Seek medical care after a drunk driver crashes first. Then, give us a call to schedule a consultation with our drunk driving accident attorney.

Hire a Reliable Seattle Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Backed by Extensive Experience

Being involved in a drunk driver accident requires a strong legal ally. It’s not just about legal know-how but also about understanding the emotional weight of the situation.

Having Bungay Law by your side following drunk driving incidents can lead to numerous benefits:

• Legal Expertise in Personal Injury and DUI Laws: Seattle’s drunk driving laws can be complex. Bungay Law’s expert team stays updated on the latest developments. We ensure clients receive up-to-date advice. With a firm grip on personal injury and DUI laws, we provide unmatched legal representation.
• Investigative Skills in Gathering Evidence: Proper evidence is crucial to building a strong case. Bungay Law delves deep, collecting all pertinent information. We scour accident scenes and interview witnesses. Our thorough investigations pave the way for successful outcomes.
• Negotiation and Communication With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies can be challenging to deal with. They often attempt to minimize payouts. But Bungay Law knows their tactics. We negotiate aggressively, ensuring our clients receive what they rightfully deserve.
• Representation in Court, if Necessary: Sometimes, a favorable settlement outside court isn’t possible. In such cases, we don’t hesitate to go to trial. Our seasoned lawyers present compelling cases, advocating fiercely for clients in the courtroom.
• Ensuring Clients Receive Fair Compensation: At the heart of our service is a commitment to justice. We work to secure comprehensive compensation for our clients. With Bungay Law, you’re not just a client but a family.

With Bungay Law’s dedication and expertise, you’re setting yourself up for the best possible outcome. Let us shoulder the legal burdens while you focus on healing.

Statistics on Drunk Driving Accidents in Seattle

Every year, Seattle witnesses a significant number of accidents due to drunk driving. These incidents not only lead to property damage but also result in severe injuries or even death. Over 10,000 people in the United States die yearly due to drunk driving. In addition, close to a third of all fatal crashes in Washington State involved a drunk driver.

Legal Implications and Penalties for Drunk Driving in Seattle

Drivers guilty of driving under the influence in Seattle can face hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The severity of penalties depends on the driver’s blood alcohol concentration and any prior DUI convictions.

However, penalties extend beyond the legal realm. Convicts often face increased insurance rates, employment challenges, and a stained reputation. For victims, the consequences of someone else’s poor decisions can be life-altering. We assist victims through their recovery journey while seeking justice.

Common Causes and Consequences of Drunk Driving Accidents

Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and hinders motor skills. Often, drunk drivers exhibit risky behaviors like speeding, swerving, or ignoring traffic signals. Such recklessness is a recipe for disaster, frequently culminating in severe accidents.

Common Injuries Seen in Seattle’s Drunk Driving Accidents

Some injuries are more common than others in a drunk driving incident.

Recognizing these injuries helps in understanding the gravity of the situation:

• Broken Bones: Drunk driving accidents often lead to violent collisions. It is not unusual for people to sustain bone fractures. Some might even require surgery.
• Loss of Limbs: In high-impact crashes, victims might tragically lose limbs. Such injuries dramatically could require long-term medical care.
• Partial or Complete Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, forever changing a victim’s life. They might need life-long care, specialized equipment, and home modifications.
• Coma: Severe head injuries can result in comas. Victims might remain unconscious for extended periods, with recovery being uncertain.
• Wrongful Death: The most heart-wrenching consequence of drunk driving accidents is the loss of life. Families are left grieving, facing not only emotional but also financial hardships. We may be able to file a wrongful death claim on your behalf.

Always seek medical care after an accident. Then, call us to schedule a consultation.

What to Do After Your Seattle Drunk Driving Accident

A few key steps you should take after a drunk driving accident in Seattle include:

1. Prioritize Safety: Before anything else, ensure your safety. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic.
2. Call the Authorities: Always report the accident. The police will document the scene, which can be crucial for legal proceedings.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, get a medical evaluation. Some injuries manifest later.
4. Document the Scene: Record videos and take pictures of the car accident. Capture damages, injuries, and any other relevant details.
5. Gather Witness Details: If there are witnesses, collect their contact information. Their testimonies can bolster your case.
6. Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurer about the accident. Do not admit fault or provide extensive details.
7. Consult Bungay Law: Consult our experienced lawyers to protect your rights. We will strive hard to secure a favorable settlement.

By staying informed and seeking expert legal counsel, you set the foundation for a favorable outcome.

Responsible Parties for Drunk Driving Accidents in Seattle

Identifying the responsible parties in a drunk driving accident is crucial for legal claims. In Seattle, apart from the drunk driver, other entities might share the blame:

The Driver: The primary responsibility lies with the intoxicated driver. Their decision to drive under the influence puts lives at risk. They face legal consequences, and their insurance typically covers victims’ damages.

The Drunk Driver’s Employer: If the drunk driver was on the job at the time of the accident, their employer might bear some responsibility. Companies have a duty to ensure their employees act responsibly, especially if driving is a job function.

The Store, Bar, or Restaurant Who Sold Alcohol to the Drunk Driver: Seattle and Washington State laws sometimes hold establishments liable if they serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated persons who then cause accidents. This is known as “dram shop” liability.

It’s a mechanism to ensure establishments act responsibly. Over-serving patrons has consequences. Bungay Law ensures they’re held accountable when their negligence leads to accidents.

Social Host That Provided Alcohol to a Non-Related Minor: Social hosts can be held liable if they provide alcohol to minors who then cause accidents. While adults are expected to make informed decisions, minors might lack the same judgment. Providing them with alcohol is not only illegal but also dangerous.

We will see to it that all responsible parties are held accountable. We are here to fight for you. Be sure to call us to schedule a case consultation. With a thorough investigation, we can see who should be held responsible. Then, we will fight for you. You focus on getting better. Let us handle the legal issues.

Evidence in Drunk Driving Accident Claims

Evidence is the bedrock of any successful drunk driving accident claim. Proper documentation and collection can make or break a case. When working with Bungay Law, clients benefit from our comprehensive approach to evidence gathering:

• Official Police Report: This document offers an unbiased account of the accident. It includes details of the involved parties, witnesses, and often an initial assessment of fault.
• Eyewitness Testimony: Witnesses can corroborate your account of the incident, strengthening your claim. Their statements provide additional perspectives and can validate claims of driver intoxication.
• Footage From Dash Camera: Dash cams have become prevalent. Their footage can offer a real-time account of the accident, providing irrefutable evidence of fault.
• Photos of the Scene: Pictures can document the accident’s severity, vehicle damages, and even weather conditions. Such visuals can be instrumental in court or negotiations.
• Black Box Data: Modern vehicles come equipped with a “black box” that records data like speed, brake usage, and more just before a crash. This data can substantiate claims about the accident’s cause and dynamics.

Compiling this evidence is meticulous work but essential for a solid case. Bungay Law’s commitment to thorough evidence collection ensures clients stand the best chance of securing rightful compensation. Reach out to us to schedule a case consultation as soon as you can.

Seattle Statute of Limitations on Car Accidents

In Seattle and Washington State, victims have a limited window to file a lawsuit after a car accident. This period, known as the statute of limitations, is generally three years from the accident date. Missing this deadline can bar victims from pursuing compensation.

It’s crucial to act promptly because of this deadline and ensure evidence is fresh and witnesses are available. With Bungay Law on your side, all legal timelines are diligently followed, ensuring you never miss an opportunity for justice.

Damages You Can Claim in a Seattle Drunk Driving Accident Claim

Accidents bring a whirlwind of costs, from medical bills to property damages. However, the true scope of damages extends beyond immediate financial implications. With Bungay Law, clients receive guidance on claiming both economic and non-economic damages, ensuring comprehensive compensation.

Economic Damages

These are tangible costs resulting from the car accident. They cover medical bills, lost wages, property damages, and any future expenses like ongoing therapy. With proper documentation, these damages are relatively straightforward to calculate.

Yet, their scope can be vast. From surgeries to home modifications for disability, Bungay Law ensures every potential cost is considered, securing maximum compensation for clients.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages aren’t easily quantifiable. They include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and even loss of consortium. Essentially, they address the emotional and psychological toll of an accident.

Quantifying such damages requires expertise. Bungay Law approaches them with sensitivity, ensuring clients are compensated for the intangible yet significant aftermath of accidents.

Punitive Damages

While rarer, punitive damages are sometimes awarded in drunk driving cases. They’re not about compensating the victim but punishing the wrongdoer. Their aim is deterrence, sending a strong message against reckless behavior.

Such damages hinge on proving malicious intent or extreme negligence. With Bungay Law’s meticulous approach, clients are positioned to claim every possible form of compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Seattle Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer at Bungay Law Today

Accidents are overwhelming, especially when they result from someone else’s recklessness. Victims deserve justice, and Bungay Law ensures they receive it. With our expertise, dedication, and compassion, you’re not navigating this journey alone.

Every case is unique, and understanding its nuances is crucial. Contact us today to schedule a free case consultation. We are here to fight for you during your time of need.