An Auto Accident Lawyer in Gig Harbor is familiar with the most common causes of vehicle collisions and has probably worked on cases in which the cause was unusual. When one driver acts irresponsibly behind the wheel, the risk of an accident increases significantly. Other people may have their lives changed forever in a negative way.
DUI
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is a common cause of serious accidents that injure other people. In Washington State, any DUI is considered a criminal offense. The charge for the first three convictions is a misdemeanor, but repeat offenses beyond that are felonies. An Auto Accident Lawyer in Gig Harbor represents clients who have been injured by drunk drivers and expect reasonable financial compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Distracted Driving
Some other types of driver behavior have recently become illegal under Washington State law, although these actions are not criminal offenses. The law addresses various types of distracted driving that can be hazardous. These drivers are likely to be considered fully responsible when they cause an accident even if there were extenuating circumstances like bad weather.
Texting while driving, for example, is prohibited, and that has been true in Washington for many years even though many other states do not allow this example. The new law is strict compared with distracted driving regulations in other states. It prohibits even holding a cell phone or any other electronic device, and that includes just looking at a cell phone while stopped at a traffic light. The law also does not allow eating or drinking when behind the wheel.
Other Causes
Accidents are also frequently caused by drivers traveling when they are fatigued or sleepy. Traveling too fast in construction zones or in very rainy or foggy conditions is problematic behavior. Rolling through stop signs, trying to beat yellow lights, and driving faster than the speed limit are risk factors too.
Anyone who has been injured in a vehicle collision in which another driver was at fault may want to contact a firm such as The Law Offices of Anthony C. Otto. Visit our website to learn more and to schedule a consultation.
