Earlier this month, a video released by NBC news showed a crowd of bystanders tackling a Bellevue driver suspected of driving under the influence, after he rammed seven cars, tried to escape his vehicle, and tried to carjack another one. The video was recorded by a witness passerby. It shows a man running from car to car on a crowded street in the city's Factoria neighborhood, trying to punch and kick windows in. A witness told NBC news that the suspect tried to pull him out of his car.

Eventually, other people got out of their cars and restrained the man until law enforcement arrived. Police would not identify the suspect, and only stated that he was "previously known" by their department.

Property Damage and DUIs

As I have written before, the state of Washington has very serious penalties for DUIs- even first offenses. A DUI that has resulted in property damage may result in both civil and criminal proceedings against you. The State is the responsible party for pressing criminal charges against you, but in many cases a civil suit brought on by the property owner may be the only way to recover property damages. More importantly, factors such as the amount of property damage or bodily injuries caused, are also considered during the sentencing process. If the amount of property damage caused is significant enough, there is a chance you will be charged with a felony-- even if it is you r first DUI charge.

Hit & Run with Property Damage

If you are involved in a car accident in which you try to flee the scene, you also risk getting additional charges, such as hit & run. See RCW 46.52.020. Washington law requires those involved in an accident that causes property damage to take "reasonable steps" to locate and notify the person in charge of the property. You must provide your name and address.

A simple hit & run with property damage is a misdemeanor punishable by 90 days imprisonment and a $1,000.00 fine. Unlike a DUI, a conviction of a hit & run will not automatically suspend or revoke your driver's license. A good attorney should seek this as an alternative charge for his client whenever possible.

Dedicated DUI Defense Attorney Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Everett, Snohomish, and the Puget Sound area in King County, Snohomish County, Skagit County, Whatcom County, and Kittitas County

Every driving under the influence (DUI) charge is a serious crime. Even a first-time DUI carries significant penalties. Additionally, courts and prosecutors are being pressured to be tougher on subsequent second or third time offenders and are much less willing to bargain or strike compromises. Criminal Defense attorney Steve Karimi has extensive experience in criminal defense and will fight all your DUI and hit & run charges and seek to reduce all charges whenever possible—so you can preserve your future. He has handled over 164 DUI cases and has demonstrated many successes for his clients. Your initial consultation is free and our rates are reasonable. Contact us at 206-621-8777 or online.