Washington State takes DUI charges very seriously. When a DUI results in injury to another person, a conviction can lead to enhanced criminal penalties, long-term consequences, and civil liability. At Peters Associates, LLC, a Redmond DUI with injury lawyer can provide strategic and aggressive representation to challenge these allegations.
In the U.S., drunk drivers are involved in about 30% of all accidents. As a result, about 37 people die every day in a drunk-driving crash. That’s one death every 85 seconds.
Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal, but penalties can become much more severe when another person is injured as a result. The charge can escalate to vehicular assault, which is a felony in Washington State.
Prosecutors have to prove that:
We’ll provide a free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney from Peters Associates serving Bellevue, WA, Wyoming, and throughout King County
A DUI may be charged as a misdemeanor in Washington. However, a DUI with injury is charged as a felony. If you’re convicted, you could face the following penalties:
Penalties for DUI with injury reflect the severity of the action. However, other factors can influence sentencing. These include:
In addition to penalties imposed on you by the court, you could also face a civil claim from the victim seeking compensation for injuries or other damages. This can result in substantial financial liability.
The Redmond DUI lawyers at Peters Associates, LLC, can handle all aspects of your case. We can challenge the legality of the traffic stop or arrest and scrutinize blood alcohol concentration tests. Our team can thoroughly investigate all aspects of the accident.
We can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges and represent you in court hearings or DMV proceedings. Even if you are not convicted, your driver’s license may still be suspended. You must request a Washington State Department of Licensing hearing within a week of your arrest to challenge the suspension. These hearings occur at 7225 170th Ave NE in Redmond, WA. Our team can handle these hearings to help protect your driving abilities.
If alternative sentencing or treatment options are available, we can pursue these on your behalf. These may include drug court, electronic home monitoring, or community service.
Peters Associates, LLC, has a deep understanding of local court procedures and a strong record of successful DUI cases. We can employ a variety of possible defense strategies, such as:
Even if you’re acquitted in criminal court, you may still face a civil court process by the injured party. A civil claim for a DUI accident may request compensation for:
In addition to handling your criminal case, we can advise you on how it may impact any potential civil claims and work to mitigate liability.
While some lawyers may charge a flat fee for simple DUI cases, many charge by the hour. Fees vary, however, based on the location, the attorney’s experience, and the overall complexity of the case. More complex cases may involve reports of injury or property damage. If you have a criminal history, this can also add to the severity of your charges and the work necessary to defend against them.
A DUI with injury refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and then causing harm to another person. This offense is treated more seriously than a standard DUI and may result in a felony charge. Penalties can include jail or prison time, hefty fines, and extended license suspension. Restitution to the victim may also be necessary.
The ideal defense for a DUI really depends on the case. It can include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or disputing the accuracy of an administered breath or blood test. An ideal defense might also include questioning the arresting officer’s observations or use of police procedure. Any of these strategies can create a strong defense.
A Redmond hit and run DUI lawyer can get you out of jail after an arrest by requesting bail reduction or arguing for your release on your own recognizance. For first-time or non-violent DUI offenses, judges are more likely to grant a release without bond. Your attorney can work to schedule a bail hearing and present evidence that you’re not a flight risk or danger to the public.
DUIs resulting in injuries come with higher stakes and more severe penalties. You might also be charged with a felony, which can greatly impact your future. The attorneys of Peters Associates, LLC, can provide aggressive defense strategies for those accused of injury DUIs.
Our team can examine all evidence, including accident reports, blood alcohol content tests, and witness statements, to build a robust defense. Reach out today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Hire Peters Associates to represent you in court. Call today for a free consultation