
PURSING FULL COMPENSATION AFTER DUI CRASHES THROUGHOUT WASHINGTON
Drunk driving accidents are declining across the nation, but Washington continues to score above the national average when it comes to the percentage of driving fatalities in which alcohol impairment played a role. Since 1959, the vehicle accident attorneys at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC have fought for victims of drunk drivers. Our experienced legal team focuses all our resources in an effort to obtain the maximum compensation possible.
DRUNK DRIVING AND LIABILITY FOR TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS
It is theoretically possible for a person to drive drunk, get into a traffic accident and yet not be responsible for the damage. A sober driver may have run a red light or performed some other unsafe maneuver. However, given society’s attitude toward drinking and driving, the sober driver is going to get the benefit of the doubt, unless there is clear and convincing evidence to the contrary. Despite Washington’s laws on comparative negligence, a finding that a driver was legally impaired is often tantamount to finding liability.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF THE DRIVER WHO HIT YOU WAS DRINKING?
In the normal course of a non-injury accident, the drivers would move their cars to a safe location and exchange identifying information, including insurance documentation. But when one of the drivers appears intoxicated, it’s best for the sober driver not to engage. Instead:
- Stay in your car.
- Call the police on your cell phone.
- Record the license plate number of the other vehicle.
- Wait for the police to arrive and inform them of your suspicions.
If you or someone in your vehicle sustains an injury, it becomes even more crucial not to engage the drunk driver. Your justifiable anger may distract you from your most important task at hand: getting medical assistance for the injured party. Follow the steps cited above — requesting an ambulance when you call the police — and provide first aid to your injured party as you wait for help.
Contact our Tacoma accident attorneys for representation in your drunk driving crash case
If a drunk driver injured you or a loved one, Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC is ready to help. Our seasoned car accident attorneys will evaluate your case for free. To schedule a consultation, call us at 253-383-5388 or contact our office online.
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Do you have a case?
At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC we have the skill and experience to take on a wide range of personal injury cases throughout Washington state. From motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries – our reputation and success rates keep opposing counsel on edge.

Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most common Washington personal injury questions. These are resources for injury victims.
Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit?
It is not necessary to retain a lawyer to file your personal injury lawsuit. You should base your decision to involve an attorney on a reasonable assessment of the pros and cons. Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC is a highly reputable personal injury law firm that has served Washington since 1959. We deliver value to our clients that far outweighs the fees we collect. But before you retain any attorney, you have to be satisfied that the benefits exceed the costs. We offer these points for your consideration.
What is the statute of limitations in Washington for personal injury?
A statute of limitations is state law; throughout the country, different states set different time limits for identical causes of action. Within each state, different causes of action have different time limits. In Washington, for personal injury lawsuits, the statute of limitations is three years.
How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?
The great advantage of filing a personal injury lawsuit is that most attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. That means that rather than charging upfront legal fees or an hourly rate, the attorney works without compensation until the case resolves through a jury verdict or settlement. At that time, the attorney takes a percentage of the award. The contingency fee arrangement helps plaintiffs who could not otherwise afford the costs of civil litigation to pursue just compensation without worrying about expenses. It also means that your ability to retain an excellent lawyer does not depend on your ability to pay, but rather on the attorney’s assessment of the strength of your case, or the importance of delivering justice to someone in your particular circumstances.
How do I file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington state?
At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC, we want our clients to have an accurate picture of what a personal injury lawsuit entails. The process is rarely quick and easy; defense counsel and insurance companies often employ delay tactics to wear a plaintiff down. We offer this page as a primer for anyone who has a cause of action and is considering a personal injury lawsuit.
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