Washington DUI Accident Claim Review
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DUI / Drunk Driver Crashes in Washington State
Being hit by an impaired driver creates a criminal case and a separate civil claim. The criminal case can support your claim, but it does not compensate you — that is what the civil claim is for.
What makes these claims different
Two separate processes
The criminal prosecution punishes the driver. Your civil injury claim is what addresses your medical bills, lost income and other losses, and it proceeds on its own track.
The criminal case can help your claim
A conviction, breath or blood results and the arresting officer's report can all become useful evidence in the civil claim.
Dram shop claims may exist
Washington law can allow a claim against a bar or restaurant that over-served an apparently intoxicated person. These claims are fact-specific and time-sensitive.
Restitution is not full compensation
Criminal restitution is typically limited and does not usually cover pain and suffering or the full scope of future care.
Evidence that tends to matter most
- The collision report and the DUI arrest report
- The criminal case number and court
- Receipts or records showing where the driver had been drinking
- Your complete medical records
- Documentation of time missed from work
The deadline that governs your claim
Most Washington personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the accident under RCW 4.16.080. Claims involving a government entity carry far shorter notice requirements. Because evidence degrades and witnesses become harder to reach, waiting rarely helps a claim — and a free review costs you nothing.
Partial fault doesn't end a Washington claim
Under RCW 4.22.005, Washington applies pure comparative fault: if you are found partly responsible, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault rather than eliminated. Insurers know most people don't know this, and initial fault assessments frequently overstate a claimant's share.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dui accident case review cost?
Nothing. The review is free, and attorneys in our network work on contingency, which generally means no upfront attorney fee. Ask any attorney to explain their fee agreement and how case costs are handled in writing.
How long do I have to bring a dui accident claim in Washington?
Generally three years from the date of the accident (RCW 4.16.080), with much shorter notice deadlines if a government entity is involved.
What if I was partly at fault?
Washington uses pure comparative fault (RCW 4.22.005), so partial fault reduces your recovery proportionally rather than barring it entirely.
What if the other driver had no insurance?
Your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply. Washington insurers must generally offer UM/UIM coverage under RCW 48.22.030, and it is more common than people assume.
Is ClientACQ a law firm?
No. ClientACQ is an advertising and lead-generation service that connects Washington accident victims with independent, licensed attorneys. We are paid by those attorneys, never by you, and we do not provide legal advice.
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