Lakewood DUI Accident Lawyer

Car accidents involving drunk or impaired drivers are among the most devastating events on Washington roads. For car accident victims in Lakewood, the aftermath often means more than just physical pain. It can include mounting medical bills, emotional distress, and uncertainty about the future. Whether you or a loved one suffered injuries in a drunk driving accident, the financial burden and emotional toll can feel overwhelming.

At Brumley Law Firm, we understand the struggles crash victims face after being harmed by an impaired driver. Our experienced Lakewood personal injury attorneys are dedicated to guiding victims through the legal process, pursuing fair compensation, and helping families focus on recovery. With experience handling auto accident cases across Western Washington, our firm is committed to protecting our clients’ best interests every step of the way.

Why Hire Brumley Law Firm for Your DUI Accident Case in Lakewood?

Finding an experienced accident attorney can have a significant impact on how your case is managed and presented. At Brumley Law Firm, our team of Lakewood car accident lawyers brings decades of combined experience handling DUI accident cases, including serious injuries and wrongful death claims.

Joshua Brumley’s prior experience representing insurance companies helps inform our approach to handling injury claims. This experience allows our team to anticipate their strategies and prepare well-supported personal injury claims for our clients.

Our law firm is experienced in helping clients pursue compensation in complex auto accident cases. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting a case in court, we work diligently to pursue the maximum compensation available under Washington law, based on the facts of your case.

Client Testimonials

“Brumley Law Firm was there for me after my car accident. They handled everything with the insurance companies and made sure I received the compensation I needed for medical care and lost wages.” – Former Client

“Joshua Brumley and his team were compassionate and professional. They kept me informed every step of the way and truly cared about my recovery.” – Former Client

How a Lakewood DUI Accident Attorney Can Help You With a Case

A Lakewood DUI accident lawyer provides more than legal advice. At Brumley Law Firm, we handle every aspect of your personal injury claim so you can focus on healing:

• Investigating the crash – Our team gathers police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong case.
• Handling communications – We deal directly with insurance companies to protect you from pressure tactics.
• Consulting expert witnesses – Accident reconstructionists and medical professionals can provide testimony to strengthen your claim.
• Negotiating settlements – We pursue full compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
• Litigating in court – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take your case before a judge and jury.

Common Types of DUI Accident Cases

Our Lakewood car accident attorneys have handled a wide range of cases involving impaired drivers. Some of the most common types include:

• Head-on collisions caused by drunk drivers swerving into oncoming traffic
• Rear-end collisions where impaired drivers failed to stop in time
• Pedestrian accidents involving reckless driving in crosswalks or residential areas
• Fatal accidents leading to wrongful death claims for surviving family members
• Multi-vehicle crashes where alcohol or drugs played a role in triggering a chain reaction

Statistics on DUI-Related Crashes in Washington & Pierce County

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission reports that impaired drivers are involved in a large share of fatal crashes statewide each year, making impairment one of the most common causes of serious collisions.

According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission’s State of the State report, traffic deaths climbed from 674 in 2021 to 810 in 2023, the highest number recorded since 1990.

The Highway Injury Prevention Research Center found that 400 of Washington’s traffic fatalities in one recent year involved alcohol- or drug-impaired drivers.

In Pierce County, The News Tribune reported that 18 fatal crashes in 2023 were linked to alcohol or drug impairment, including five in Tacoma.

At the national level, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that about 30 percent of all U.S. traffic deaths involve drivers with blood alcohol concentrations at or above 0.08.

Compensation You Can Obtain in a DUI Accident Case

Crash victims in Lakewood may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity if injuries prevent you from returning to work
• Property damage to repair or replace your vehicle
• Pain and suffering for ongoing physical and emotional distress
• Economic damages such as transportation costs, future care, and other out-of-pocket expenses

Understanding all potential damages is critical to ensuring full compensation. Our accident lawyers investigate every aspect of your claim to identify every possible source of recovery.

What is the Process for Filing a DUI Accident Claim?

The process of filing a DUI accident claim in Lakewood typically follows these steps:

1. Seek medical attention – Prioritize your health and document your injuries.
2. Consult a lawyer – Schedule a free case evaluation with our Lakewood DUI accident lawyer.
3. Investigate the crash – We collect evidence and identify liable parties.
4. File a personal injury claim – We notify insurance companies and begin negotiations.
5. Negotiate settlement offers – We work toward fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
6. Proceed to court if necessary – If insurers refuse to pay fairly, we present your case in court.
7. Seek compensation – Once resolved, you may be able to move forward with financial support for your recovery.

Statute of Limitations in a Lakewood DUI Accident Claim

In Washington, car accident victims generally have three years from the date of the collision to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation. Some exceptions may apply, which is why speaking with an accident attorney as soon as possible is important.

Elements of Negligence in a DUI Accident Claim

To succeed in a DUI accident case, your lawyer must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of care – Drivers must operate vehicles responsibly.
2. Breach of duty – An impaired driver violated that responsibility.
3. Causation – The breach directly caused the crash.
4. Damages – You suffered injuries, financial losses, or other harm as a result.

Washington State’s Comparative Fault Laws

Washington follows a comparative fault system. This means even if you are partially responsible for a crash, you may still recover compensation. However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20 % at fault and awarded $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

Contact a Lakewood DUI Accident Lawyer Today

At Brumley Law Firm, we are committed to guiding victims of drunk driving accidents through the challenges of recovery and legal action. We advocate clients seeking compensation for medical care, lost wages, and emotional distress while pursuing accountability through the civil justice system.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI accident, do not wait. Contact our Lakewood DUI accident lawyers today for a free case evaluation. Call Brumley Law Firm at (833) 740-2275 or request a free legal consultation online to learn more about your legal options.