Drunk Driving Truck Accidents in Seattle

Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence can have severe consequences for all involved. This is especially true for truck drivers, as a collision with a semi-truck can cause life-threatening injuries or even death. If you or a loved one were harmed at the hands of a drunk truck driver, you might be entitled to financial compensation from the liable party.

Pursuing a negligence claim could prove difficult without the guidance of a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer. Contact our office to discuss your drunk driving truck accident in Seattle with a dedicated attorney today.

Unique Blood Alcohol Limits for Truck Drivers

Under Washington Statutes § 46.61.500, the per se blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 percent. This means that anyone at or above that level is considered legally intoxicated without any other evidence required.

It is important to note that this limit is halved to 0.04 percent for commercial truck drivers. Commercial truck drivers are held to a higher standard because they drive exceptionally dangerous vehicles while on the job. Anything at or exceeding this BAC level is considered intoxicated per se. A Seattle attorney could pursue compensation from a driver who was intoxicated per se at the time of an accident.

Intoxication by Drugs

Truck drivers may also be considered intoxicated due to the presence of drugs in their system. Drivers using marijuana may display delayed reaction times, make rash decisions, and act sluggishly. Those using heroin, cocaine, and similar stimulants may be significantly affected by the drugs and make negligent driving choices.

A blood test is required to determine the presence of drugs in a driver’s system. However, many officers can identify some of the characteristics of intoxication by observing a driver or interacting with them. This information may be noted in the accident report and could serve as vital evidence in a personal injury claim. If someone suspects that a drunk truck driver caused their collision, a Seattle attorney could review the police reports for evidence of intoxication.

Dangers Posed by Drunk Truck Drivers in Seattle

Drunk drivers can be significantly affected by intoxication. To operate their truck properly, every driver needs to be fully alert and functional, but intoxication could make that nearly impossible. Drunk and drugged driving may lead to:

• The inability to concentrate on driving
• Delayed reaction times
• Hallucinations
• Distracted driving
• Sluggishness and fatigue
• Falling asleep behind the wheel
• Road rage, aggression, and severe mood swings

The negligent decision to operate a truck under the influence can cause catastrophic harm. A driver found to have been using drugs or alcohol when the collision occurred may be held legally responsible for ensuing damages. A local attorney could help determine the cause of a drunk driving truck crash and if financial compensation is possible.

Pursuing Compensation for Drunk Driving Truck Collisions

After sustaining harm in a drunk driving truck accident, the injured party may be eligible to pursue compensation from the driver or employer responsible. If the negligence case is adequately proven, the injured party could be awarded monetary damages such as:

• Property damage
• Lost income and salary potential
• The cost of rehabilitation services
• Future and past medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• The loss of companionship and support
• Wrongful death damages
• Punitive damages

A seasoned attorney could help determine an appropriate settlement award covering related medical expenses following a Seattle drunk driving truck collision.

Talk to an Attorney About Your Drunk Driving Truck Accident in Seattle

Drunk truck drivers should be held responsible for injuries caused by their negligence. A truck accident lawyer could help you pursue the financial compensation you deserve for your suffering.

Contact our firm today for help with drunk driving truck accidents in Seattle. An attorney could help you successfully file a negligence claim against the liable party and guide you through the ensuing legal processes.