A 20-year-old Grandview, Washington, woman was killed after a drunk driver going the wrong way struck her vehicle head-on on the Interstate 82, the Tri-City Herald reports. The 49-year-old man was charged with vehicular homicide. Prosecutors say the man had been drinking beer before he got behind the wheel of his truck and drove the wrong way on the Interstate 82 slamming into a 2007 Chrysler 300 driven by the young victim. The wrong-way driver apparently had bloodshot and watery eyes and emitted a strong odor of alcohol. His speech was slurred and he admitted to drinking beer, Washington State Patrol officials said.
In Washington State, it is illegal to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is also against the law to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. If a DUI accident results in the death of an individual other than the drunk driver, the person will face vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide. Conviction on these charges could mean a lengthy prison time.
Such drivers should also be held civilly liable for the injuries and damages caused to victims and their families. In Washington car accidents where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased auto accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost earning and other related damages. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a DUI driver in Washington State, you need skilled legal representation. Please call The Bernard Law Group to speak with Kirk Bernard or another skilled attorney at our office to find out how we can help. Our aggressive team of Seattle personal injury attorneys will fight for your rights and make sure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.