Four Killed in Tragic Car Accident Spokane Man Suspected of Drunk Driving

According to a report from KREM-TV, four people were killed and two young children were injured in a tragic crash in Missoula County. Based on preliminary evidence, authorities suspect a 45-year-old Spokane man of drunk driving. In this article, our Spokane car accident attorney explains what we know about the crash and discusses the dangers of intoxicated driving.

Fatal Head-On Collision: A Suspected DUI Accident

The Montana Highway Patrol reports that a 45-year-old Spokane, WA man in a Chevrolet Suburban entered Interstate-90 near Missoula travelling the wrong direction. He was going eastbound in the westbound lanes. Shortly thereafter, the driver struck an SUV head-on. One vehicle was sent into the center median and the other came to the rest in a ditch.

Tragically, four people were killed in the wreck. The Spokane man, who was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, is suspected of intoxicated driving. As of the time of the report, the identity of the victims had not yet been released to the public. The collision is still under a more comprehensive investigation and anyone with relevant information is encouraged to reach out to the authorities.

Half of Highway Fatalities are Caused By Impaired Driving

Drunk driving and drugged driving are among the leading causes of catastrophic motor vehicle accidents in the United States. The Washington State Traffic Safety Commission (WSTC) notes that 50 percent of all car accident fatalities reported in the state are caused by impaired driving. An average of 275 people are killed in Washington each year in crashes caused by drunk drivers (0.08 BAC or higher) or drivers who test positive for an impairing drug.

One of the most alarming things about intoxicated driving accidents is they are disproportionately likely to result in highway fatalities or catastrophic injuries. As an example, impaired driving is the leading cause of head-on collisions in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finds that a significant percentage of head-on accidents happen because impaired drivers enter the wrong side of divided highways or lose control of their vehicle while behind the wheel.

Drunk Drivers Must Be Held Liable for Lives Destroyed

Following a crash, a drunk driver is likely to be arrested and charged with a crime. Beyond any criminal case, an intoxicated driver should also be held accountable through a civil personal injury claim. In Washington, injured auto accident victims can seek compensation for full extent of economic and non-economic damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Additionally, in a DUI accident claim, punitive compensation may be available. A car accident attorney can help you maximize your recovery.

Speak to a Washington Auto Accident Lawyer Today

At‌ ‌Albrecht‌ ‌Law‌ ‌PLLC, our Spokane car accident attorneys are passionate, results-centered advocates for victims and their loved ones. If you or someone you know was hurt in a crash with a drunk driver or drugged driver, we will protect your rights. For a free, confidential consultation, please contact our Spokane law office today. We represent drunk driving accident victims throughout Eastern Washington, including in Spokane Valley, Town and County, and Glenrose.