By Pendergast Law on December 17, 2013
Six people suffered serious injuries in a violent head-on collision. According to a KOMO news report, the incident occurred on Juanita Drive in Kirkland. Police say five women in a bridal party were driving north along Juanita when another car going south on Juanita crossed the centerline and slammed head-on into their vehicle.
The woman in the other car was ejected from her vehicle and transported to a Seattle hospital with a brain injury. The members of the bridal party suffered broken bones and other non-life-threatening injuries. Officials suspect that the other driver was under the influence. An investigation is ongoing.
Under Washington law, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. It is also against the law to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher. A driver who causes a collision while under the influence can be held both criminally and civilly liable for his or her actions.
Drunk driving victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, physical therapy, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. An experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer will be able to stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable.
In cases where the liable driver is uninsured or underinsured, victims may be able to seek compensation for losses through the uninsured motorist clause of their own auto insurance policy. There are a number of complications that can arise during the personal injury claims process. It would benefit victims in such cases to have a knowledgeable lawyer on their side, fighting for their rights and looking out for their best interests.