Seattle Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
The Impact of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is a serious crime with real victims. Every year, countless innocent people are hurt or killed because someone chose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Washington State imposes severe criminal penalties for DUI, but these penalties don’t help victims recover from the harm caused. In 2023, Washington reported 400 traffic fatalities involving impaired drivers, accounting for nearly half of the state’s traffic deaths. Many other victims suffer serious, life-altering injuries.
Emerald Law Group: Your Advocates
At Emerald Law Group, our Seattle drunk driving accident attorneys are dedicated to helping those who have suffered catastrophic injuries seek justice and compensation. Our team has extensive experience representing individuals injured by impaired drivers. If you or a loved one has been affected, contact us for a free initial consultation.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable
Anyone driving a vehicle has a responsibility to ensure the safety of others on the road by following traffic laws and driving safely. Drunk driving is illegal; in Washington, the legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.08% for those over 21 and 0.02% for those under 21. Even a first DUI offense can result in jail time and hefty fines. Victims of drunk drivers can sue for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. DUI cases also involve drugs, including marijuana and prescription medications. Often, drunk driving accompanies other reckless behaviors like speeding, further supporting negligence claims in personal injury lawsuits.
Taking Action Against Drunk Drivers
If you’re injured in a car accident in Seattle, you can sue the at-fault driver for damages, especially if they were impaired. Depending on your situation, you can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, home, car, or work modifications due to injuries, and punitive damages to punish and deter negligent behavior. In wrongful death claims, you may also receive damages for funeral expenses, loss of future income, and loss of companionship.
Identifying Responsible Parties
Drunk drivers are typically held responsible for their actions, but other parties may also be liable. These include insurance companies, employers if the driver was on the job, and bars or restaurants under certain conditions.
Contact Emerald Law Group
Drunk driving can devastate victims and their families. You don’t have to face this alone. A skilled Seattle drunk driving lawyer can help you seek justice. Contact Emerald Law Group today to schedule a consultation.
