When a DUI involves an accident, the legal exposure changes. Property damage adds civil consequences, and if anyone was hurt, prosecutors may pursue felony charges.
We defend these higher-stakes cases by carefully examining causation, the testing, and whether the State can prove impairment caused the crash.
When a DUI accident becomes a felony
If a DUI collision causes substantial bodily harm to another person, Washington may charge vehicular assault, a felony. The defense must address not only the question of impairment but also causation — whether impairment, rather than another factor, actually caused the injury.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DUI with injuries a felony in Washington?
It can be. A DUI collision causing substantial bodily harm may be charged as vehicular assault, which is a felony.
What if the accident wasn't my fault?
Causation is a key issue. The State must connect impairment to the harm, and we challenge that link where the evidence allows.
Ready to talk through your situation?
Reach a Schwab Law attorney in Spokane today.