Tacoma DUI Hit and Run Defense Lawyers
Washington DUI and Hit-and-Run
Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 46.61.502, states that "a person is guilty of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug if the person drives a vehicle within" the state of Washington. Driving under the influence in Washington poses an increased danger to all drivers on the road. In the event of an accident, it is imperative that proper procedure is always followed, regardless of whether or not alcohol played any sort of a factor in the accident.
RCW 46.52.010, "Duty on striking unattended car or other property – penalty" states:
- The operator of any vehicle which collided with any other vehicle which is unattended shall immediately stop and shall then and there either locate and notify the operator or owner of such vehicle of the name and address of the operator and owner of the vehicle striking the unattended vehicle or shall leave in a conspicuous place in the vehicle struck a written notice, giving the name and address of the operator and of the owner of the vehicle striking such other vehicle.
Failure to adhere to the aforementioned rule will typically result in a misdemeanor.
Furthermore, if the hit-and-run act involves bodily harm caused to another person, RCW 46.52.020, "Duty in case of personal injury or death or damage to attended vehicle or other property – penalties" states:
- A driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in the injury to or death of any person or involving striking the body of a deceased person shall immediately stop such vehicle at the scene of such accident or as close thereto as possible but shall then forthwith return to, and in every event remain at, the scene of such accident until he or she has...given his or her name, address, insurance company, insurance policy number, and vehicle license number and has exhibited his or her vehicle driver's license to any person struck or injured or the driver or any occupant of, or any person attending, any such vehicle collided with and shall render to any person injured in such accident reasonable assistance, including the carrying or the making of arrangements for the carrying of such person to a physician or hospital for medical treatment if it is apparent that such treatment is necessary or if such carrying is requested by the injured person or on his or her behalf. Under no circumstances shall the rendering of assistance or other compliance with the provisions of this subsection be evidence of the liability of any driver for such accident.
Simply stated, one must not flee the scene of the accident. In the event that extenuating circumstances compel one to leave an accident, the assistance of a skilled Seattle DUI lawyer from the Washington DUI hit and run defense law firm of McNeese & Trotsky should be sought. Our knowledgeable Washington DUI defense attorneys will examine the details surrounding your accident, and will fight to have the charges brought against you reduced or dismissed. Please contact us today for a free consultation, and we will begin to build your defense and protect your rights.