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A serious Yakima DUI crash last Thursday has left multiple people injured, including a 3-year-old child. The head-on collision occurred in the 1100 block of North 2nd Street and involved a 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe and a 1996 GMC Sierra.

Yakima Police responded to the scene and discovered that the Tahoe was driven by a 22-year-old woman from Yakima. A 20-year-old male passenger was holding a 3-year-old child without proper restraints at the time of the crash. All three were transported to MultiCare Memorial Hospital. The child and driver were treated and released without major injuries, but the passenger suffered a concussion and a broken arm.

Personal Injury Claims in DUI Accidents

DUI-related crashes often result in significant injuries and long-term effects for victims. In Washington State, victims of impaired driving accidents have the right to pursue personal injury claims against the at-fault party.

Compensation Available to Victims

If you were injured in a DUI crash, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

  • Medical bills (current and future)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage

In cases involving children, additional damages may be recoverable for trauma, ongoing care needs, and long-term developmental impacts.

Proving Liability

In DUI cases, liability is often easier to establish because impaired driving is a clear violation of Washington traffic laws. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and toxicology results can strengthen a personal injury claim.

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable

The GMC Sierra’s driver, a 48-year-old Yakima man, showed signs of impairment at the scene and was arrested for Felony DUI and Vehicular Assault. These criminal charges support a civil case for victims seeking financial compensation.

The presence of a young child who was improperly restrained also raises serious concerns. Though criminal charges may be filed for reckless endangerment, victims and their families can still pursue civil remedies to address medical costs, emotional trauma, and more.

DUI injury cases involve complex issues around insurance, liability, and damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help:

  • Investigate the crash
  • Communicate with insurers
  • Document medical treatment
  • Maximize financial recovery

Victims should act quickly to preserve evidence and protect their claims. Washington has strict statutes of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits.

Call to Action

If you or a loved one was injured in a DUI crash, don’t face the legal process alone. Contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253-720-9304 for trusted legal guidance and compassionate support.

Additional Resources