Despite increased measures to prevent DUI crashes in Washington, state patrol investigators say they are alarmed with three suspected DUI crashes in one weekend. Three deaths in Pierce County occurred during multiple crashes caused by marijuana, Xanax, and cell phone use while driving in March 2018. What's more, another suspected DUI driver struck a trooper's patrol car after the law enforcement officer pulled someone else over.

Washington has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country. Last year, the state enacted an E-DUI Distracted Driver Law meant to discourage the use of devices while behind the wheel. For the first six months, warnings were administered and then police began issuing citations for using a cell phone, tablet, or other device. Officers wrote more than 1,700 E-DUI citations in February, alone.

Options to Avoid the Risk of a DUI

When people are out celebrating or enjoying a friendly gathering, alcohol increases the possibility of misjudging time and the number of drinks they have consumed. When someone believes they have had two or three drinks, they often have consumed more like five or six. Washington State Troopers warn if you choose to drink or take drugs, make other plans to get home and do not get behind the wheel.

Options for Avoiding Driving While Intoxicated

• Plan for a designated driver
• Budget for an Uber ride home
• Call a cab
• Call a friend or family member for a ride

Washington State Troopers often stage several emphasis patrols throughout the year, often around holidays where drunk driving is most common, such as Memorial Day weekend or the Christmas holidays. They also will target these emphasis events around trouble areas where DUI crashes are frequent. The plan is to hit a target of zero crash deaths on Washington roads by 2030. Today, in 2018, impaired driving continues to be the number-one cause of road fatalities in Washington.

Because of the increased number of deaths, law enforcement continues to test strategies to reduce the number of DUI drivers on the roads, the number of crashes, and ultimately, the number of deaths and injuries. No longer are DUI incidents considered “accidents” or “oops events.” Police know that most DUI accidents occur between midnight and 6 AM. In 2017, 556 Washington deaths resulted from DUI crashes. Police view DUI crashes not as accidents but as preventable incidents where drivers made poor choices--choices that did not have to happen. Yet everyone has lapses in judgment, especially when alcohol is involved.

What to Do if You or a Loved One is Arrested for DUI in Washington

Your best option is to hire the right attorney to help you or a loved one fight DUI charges. A former prosecutor who is now on the side of everyday people charged with alcohol-related crimes, Steve Karimi can help you get the best results. Call the Seattle DUI Lawyer, Steve Karimi, today to schedule your first consultation.