Spokane DUI With Accident Attorney
A DUI charge involving an accident in Spokane is treated far more seriously than a standard DUI arrest. When an accident occurs, law enforcement and prosecutors often assume fault, impairment, and enhanced penalties before all facts are known.
A Spokane DUI with accident attorney helps protect your rights, challenge assumptions, and fight the severe consequences that can follow these charges.
How DUI With Accident Charges Are Handled in Washington
A DUI involving an accident is still a DUI charge, but added factors can dramatically increase risk.
Prosecutors closely examine:
Whether anyone was injured
The severity of property damage
Alleged impairment level
Statements made at the scene
Accident reconstruction findings
Even minor accidents can escalate a case quickly.
DUI With Accident vs. Standard DUI
When an accident is involved, cases often include:
Enhanced scrutiny by police
Additional evidence collection
Possible felony exposure
Increased sentencing recommendations
An accident does not automatically mean guilt or enhanced penalties, but it often leads to more aggressive prosecution.
Penalties for DUI With Accident in Spokane
Penalties depend heavily on whether injuries occurred.
Possible consequences may include:
Increased jail or monitoring time
Higher fines and court costs
Longer license suspension or revocation
Mandatory ignition interlock requirements
Enhanced probation conditions
If injuries are alleged, penalties increase substantially.
DUI With Accident Involving Injury or Serious Injury
When an accident results in injury, charges may escalate.
Depending on severity, you may face:
Enhanced misdemeanor penalties
Felony DUI charges
Vehicular assault allegations
Long-term incarceration exposure
These cases require immediate legal intervention.
License Consequences After a DUI Accident
A DUI accident triggers both criminal penalties and DOL action.
You may face:
Immediate license suspension
Lengthy revocation periods
Strict reinstatement conditions
Mandatory ignition interlock installation
The administrative process operates independently of the criminal case.
Common Defense Strategies in DUI Accident Cases
DUI accident cases often involve complex evidence.
Defense strategies may include:
Challenging accident causation
Reviewing police scene procedures
Examining breath or blood test accuracy
Analyzing injury claims and timelines
Challenging assumptions of impairment
Not all accidents are caused by intoxication.
Can DUI With Accident Charges Be Reduced?
In some cases, yes.
Reduction or dismissal may depend on:
Evidence strength
Injury severity
Procedural errors
Accident reconstruction findings
Early defense efforts increase the chance of limiting exposure.
Why You Need a Spokane DUI With Accident Attorney
DUI accident cases carry higher stakes than standard DUI charges.
An experienced attorney helps:
Protect your rights during investigation
Challenge inaccurate assumptions
Manage both criminal and licensing consequences
Minimize long-term penalties
Waiting often allows the prosecution to build momentum.
How Schwab Law Handles DUI Accident Cases
Schwab Law approaches DUI accident defense with:
Early evidence review
Strategic defense planning
Attention to accident details
Clear communication with clients
Every case is treated as unique and fact-specific.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI With Accident Charges
Does an accident automatically make DUI a felony?
No. Felony exposure depends on injuries, prior offenses, and circumstances.
Will insurance be affected?
Yes. DUI accident convictions often lead to increased insurance consequences.
Can I still fight the DUI if I caused an accident?
Yes. Accident involvement does not remove your right to a defense.
Speak With a Spokane DUI With Accident Attorney Today
A DUI accident charge can threaten your freedom, license, and future.
If you are facing a DUI with accident charge in Spokane, speaking with a Spokane DUI attorney as soon as possible is critical.