No one expects to become the victim of a drunk driving accident. You may be driving home from work, running errands, or heading out for a night out when suddenly, your life is turned upside down by an intoxicated driver’s reckless decision.
The physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. A Seattle drunk driving accident lawyer can help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Consequences of Drinking and Driving in Seattle
Drinking and driving is a dangerous and often deadly combination. Alcohol impairs a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to operate a vehicle safely, which can increase the risk of serious accidents. Even a small amount of alcohol can have a significant impact on a person’s driving abilities, putting themselves and others on the road at risk.
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, in 2023, 369 impaired drivers were involved in fatal crashes in Washington. Additionally, 60 of these drivers were involved in accidents that occurred in King County and 12 in Seattle.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident, the aftermath can feel hazy and disorienting. You may be in shock, experiencing pain, or feeling overwhelmed by the situation. In these situations, it is important to seek help and contact the authorities as soon as you can:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get a thorough medical evaluation to identify any hidden injuries and establish a record of your condition. This step can help prevent complications from organ damage, brain trauma, or other serious injuries.
Call the Police: Report the accident to law enforcement and request that they send an officer to the scene to investigate and create an official accident report. This report will also contain evidence that the driver was intoxicated, such as breathalyzer results or the officer’s observations.
Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and your injuries. Collect contact information from eyewitnesses who saw the accident; they can testify about the drunk driver’s behavior.
Contact a Seattle Car Accident Attorney: Reach out to a Seattle drunk driving accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Compensation Available for Drunk Driving Accident Victims
As a victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Economic damages cover quantifiable expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These make up a large portion of your award.
Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate for subjective losses like chronic pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. A Seattle drunk driving accident attorney can help you assess the full value of your claim and fight for the maximum compensation possible.
Get Legal Support for Your Drunk Driving Accident Claim
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you need robust legal representation to protect your rights and pursue a fair settlement. At Malcolm Law Firm, our Seattle drunk driving accident lawyers have successfully advocated for the rights of drunk driving accident victims and recovered millions for our clients. Let us fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us at (206) 659-9514 for a free, confidential consultation and begin your legal journey today.
