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Tacoma Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

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An accident with a drunk driver in Tacoma can create sudden physical, emotional, and financial burdens that turn life upside down. Survivors may face costly medical bills, lost wages, and complicated insurance claims. Families grieving a loved one lost in a drunk driving accident experience profound pain alongside unexpected financial challenges. Wrongful death lawsuits provide a way to seek accountability and financial relief, helping families recover compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and other damages.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident, call our Tacoma personal injury attorneys today at (253) 383-4500 to discuss your case.

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What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident

The actions you take after the accident can influence your ability to recover damages by preserving key details, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, that may establish fault and document your losses.

Steps to Take After the Accident

  • Call 911: Reporting the accident ensures police and paramedics arrive quickly. The police report will document key details and can be valuable evidence later.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, don’t appear right away. A medical evaluation can uncover these issues before they worsen. Medical records also connect your injuries directly to the accident, which can act as a defense if an insurance company disputes your claim.
  • Exchange Information: Record names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers for all drivers involved.
  • Document the Scene: Photograph vehicle damage, visible injuries, skid marks, or any open alcohol containers. Photos can help establish the true details of what happened.
  • Gather Witness Information: Speak with anyone who saw the crash and note their names and contact information. Witness accounts can verify the other driver’s actions.
  • Speak with an Attorney: Consulting an attorney early helps avoid missteps when dealing with insurance adjusters and ensures you understand your legal options.

All of these steps are important to give you the best chance of building a compelling case that acquires the compensation you deserve so that you can move forward with your life.

Who Can File a Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit in Tacoma

Injured Victims

People injured in a drunk driving crash can file a claim to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs. Claims focus on the impaired driver’s negligence and may involve factors such as insurance policy limits or shared fault.

Wrongful Death Claims

Family members, including spouses, children, or parents, can file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a loved one in a drunk driving accident. A successful claim can cover funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages tied to the victim’s death.

Claims Involving Minors or Older Adults

Accidents that involve minors or elderly victims may require attention to specific medical and financial factors. For example, children may need long-term rehabilitation, while older adults may experience prolonged recovery because of preexisting conditions. Freeman Law Firm, Inc. works with clients to document these details thoroughly so that the case reflects the full impact of the accident.

Impact on Different Types of Victims

Drunk driving accidents don’t only affect other drivers. Victims can include passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists, each facing unique challenges when seeking compensation.

  • Passengers in the Impaired Driver’s Vehicle: Passengers injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver have the right to file a claim against the driver. Even though they were in the same vehicle, the driver’s negligent actions are not their responsibility.
  • Pedestrians and Cyclists: If people outside vehicles, such as walkers and cyclists, suffer severe injuries after being hit by a drunk driver they may also file a lawsuit.

Every victim deserves a thorough investigation of the circumstances to identify at-fault parties and seek appropriate compensation for their injuries. Our attorneys can help all victims of a drunk driving accident.

Proving Fault in a Drunk Driving Case

Showing that a driver was impaired is one of the main elements of a drunk driving accident case. Direct evidence and reliable records help prove negligence.

Evidence That Can Be Used to Establish Driver Impairment

  1. Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Tests - Breathalyzers and blood tests indicate whether the driver’s BAC was above the legal threshold.
  2. Police Reports and DUI Charges - Officers in Tacoma may record details such as slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, or open containers. Pending or resolved DUI charges can also strengthen a case.
  3. Witness Statements - Observers may have seen the driver stumbling or swerving and can verify what happened before and after the collision.

Expert Witnesses

Certain cases benefit from professional input. Accident reconstruction experts can evaluate damage, skid marks, and conditions on the road to illustrate how a crash occurred. Medical experts explain injuries, their impact on your life, and the care needed for recovery.

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Pure Comparative Negligence in Washington

Washington follows a pure comparative negligence system, which means that even if you are partially responsible for a crash, you can still recover damages. However, the amount you receive is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are 40% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would receive $60,000 after the reduction. Because fault impacts compensation, strong evidence is needed to show how the crash happened and who should be held accountable.

Dram Shop and Social Host Liability

Bars, restaurants, and private hosts in Washington may bear responsibility if they serve alcohol to a visibly impaired guest who later causes a crash. Washington state law calls this dram shop or social host liability where establishments or hosts can be held accountable for negligence if they overserve alcohol.

Examples of Third-Party Liability Cases

  • A bartender notices a guest who can barely stand but continues to serve drinks. That guest drives and collides with another car.
  • A host ignores repeated signs of intoxication at a party. The guest leaves, drives, and injures someone in a crash.

Freeman Law Firm, Inc. investigates whether other entities played a part in the accident. A detailed investigation can uncover whether an establishment or host shares responsibility, which can potentially expand the sources of compensation in your case.

Wrongful Death Claims in Drunk Driving Cases

A drunk driving accident can be devastating when a family member passes away. Relatives face the sudden need to arrange memorial services, handle unexpected expenses, and cope with a life-changing loss. A wrongful death claim after a fatal drunk driving accident in Washington gives certain relatives, such as spouses or children, a way to seek compensation for harm caused by another’s actions.

Overview of Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

Eligible family members start by confirming their right to file. Police records, coroner findings, and statements from witnesses may help prove that the other driver’s conduct caused a loved one’s death.

Damages That May Be Available to Surviving Family Members

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Reduces the financial strain of final arrangements.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Addresses the sudden gap in income that supported the household.
  • Loss of Companionship: Recognizes the emotional toll when a loved one is no longer present.

Working With an Attorney

A drunk driving accident attorney can bring clarity and direction to what can feel like a chaotic process after a drunk driving accident. From securing police reports and medical records to identifying liable parties and calculating damages, an experienced attorney handles the complex tasks that build a winning case.

What to Expect From Your Personal Injury Attorney

  • Case Investigation: Reviewing photos, medical reports, and any relevant data from the accident scene.
  • Advice and Planning: Explaining possible paths to recover what you deserve while keeping you informed of major developments.
  • Representation in Court: If negotiations fail, preparing paperwork and presenting arguments to a judge or jury.

Freeman Law Firm, Inc. has handled drunk driving cases in Tacoma for years. We understand how to gather evidence, work with expert witnesses, and counter insurance company tactics to build a compelling case so that you can move forward with confidence after a difficult experience.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Adjusters sometimes call soon after a crash, asking questions that seem routine. A single comment might be twisted to suggest your injuries are minor or unrelated to the collision. Our attorneys know how to manage these conversations and negotiate an adequate settlement that addresses your specific needs.

What to Say (and Not Say) to Insurance Adjusters
  • Keep answers factual: basic information on location, timing, and known injuries.
  • Avoid assumptions: if you are unsure about something, say so.
  • Do not apologize or admit fault: determining liability is a legal matter, and partial responsibility may still leave room for compensation.

Compensation and Costs

A drunk driving claim can cover a broad range of losses. Injuries disrupt routines, affect current finances, and can lead to ongoing therapy. A settlement or award should reflect the total impact of all hardships caused by the accident.

Economic Damages

Quantifiable costs include medical bills, car repairs, and wages you miss during recovery. Hospital fees, ambulance costs, physical therapy expenses, and medication receipts illustrate this portion of the claim.

Non-Economic Damages

An injury may leave you with long-lasting pain, panic attacks, or major lifestyle changes. Non-economic damages focus on the toll that doesn’t come with a simple receipt. Non-ecomonic damages address the emotional fallout and day-to-day limitations that might arise.

Punitive Damages

Some states allow an extra penalty if the driver’s behavior was beyond reckless. Washington tends to be selective about punitive damages, so an attorney can offer more insight on whether they apply.

Contingency Fee Model (You Pay Nothing Unless We Win)

Freeman Law Firm, Inc. uses a contingency fee model. Our ability to collect a fee is “contingent” on if we win your case. If there is no recovery, we generally do not collect a fee. With this model, you don’t have the pressure of paying an hourly rate when you may already have financial challenges.

Statute of Limitations and Case Timeline

Every state has time limits for filing a drunk driving accident claim. In Washington, missing the statute of limitations in personal injury cases can eliminate your right to recover damages. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible helps confirm that paperwork is submitted on time.

Typical Timeline of a Drunk Driving Accident Case

  1. Initial Consultation and Investigation: An attorney reviews what happened and gathers key documents.
  2. Insurance Negotiations: Settlement talks focus on the cost of medical care, missed wages, and other losses.
  3. Filing a Lawsuit: If no agreement is reached, a lawsuit may be filed in court.
  4. Discovery and Preparation: Both sides compile evidence and consult with experts.
  5. Settlement Discussions or Trial: Many claims resolve with an agreed amount. Some proceed to trial if no compromise is reached.

Recovery and legal steps can overlap, especially when injuries are severe. Our attorneys help you understand how everything fits together.

If a drunk driving accident has impacted your life or the life of someone you love, call Freeman Law Firm, Inc. at (253) 383-4500 or send us an email today. We’re here to fight for the compensation you need to rebuild and move forward with confidence.

Contact a Tacoma Rideshare Accident Attorney with Freeman Law Firm, Inc.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Renton or the surrounding areas, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact an experienced truck accident attorney, the better your chances of securing a fair settlement or verdict.

Freeman Law Firm, Inc. offers free initial consultations to help you understand your rights and options. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

We are proud to represent victims of truck accidents in Renton, and we stand ready to help you, too. Call our Renton office today at (253) 383-4500 or use our contact form for a free, no obligation consultation to get started.

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Fighting For The People. Giving Back To The Community.

Giving back and supporting our community is important to us. Upon the completion of your case, you will choose a charity to receive a 1% donation made exclusively from Freeman Law Firm, Inc. fees.
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When you're dealing with an injury, every question is important. We're here to provide compassionate legal guidance and experienced representation with understanding and support. Let's work on this together, starting today.
Tacoma Office
1107 1/2 Tacoma Avenue S
Tacoma, WA 98402


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