Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts everyone else at risk, and it’s not just limited to other drivers on the road in Spokane. In fact, more often than not, it’s actually pedestrians that are most at risk of being struck by someone that’s driving under the influence in the city. And as a story from KHQ lays out, this is precisely what happened on Friday, September 13, 2024.
A 43-year-old man who was believed to be under the influence of drugs crashed his van into the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery after hitting two pedestrians on East Sprague Avenue on Friday night. According to the Spokane Police Department (SPD), the man was driving along Sprague Avenue when he ran into a bus bench and then into the side of the nursery. Before hitting the nursery, the man also collided with two pedestrians, one of whom was walking home and another who was waiting at the bus stop. They were both taken to a local hospital with injuries, and are currently in stable condition.
The nursery was occupied with 19 staff members and children at the time, but none were injured. The man, who fled the scene, was eventually found by SPD officers. He had methamphetamines and fentanyl inside of the car when it was searched. He was held on $30,000 bond and was charged with hit-and-run, possession, and driving under the influence.
What Do You Need to Do As a Pedestrian in a DUI Accident?
Being injured as a pedestrian is never ideal, but even less when it happens because someone is driving under the influence. This makes an already dangerous situation much worse. While you don’t have protection from a moving vehicle under the best of circumstances. But a DUI situation is different, because drivers are usually moving much faster and with less reaction time.
So, when you get hurt in this situation, here’s what needs to be done:
- Call 911 and get help – First, call 911 right away so police and an ambulance can come to the scene. Let the officers know if you think the driver was under the influence. Let EMTs handle your injuries when they arrive.
- Take photos of the scene – If it’s safe, use your phone to take pictures of the accident, your injuries, and the car that hit you.
- Gather important details – Try to get the driver’s contact and insurance information, along with the license plate number. If you can’t or the driver flees the scene, ask the police to help. Get the names and contact info of any witnesses too.
- Keep records of your damages – Save all medical bills and documents related to the accident. These will help when seeking financial support for your injuries.
As a pedestrian, it’s important to always stay alert. However, an accident like in the story above can be impossible to avoid. While this isn’t what you want to happen, it does give you legal options that our Spokane pedestrian accident lawyers can help you with.
Contact CCD Law After a DUI Pedestrian Accident in Spokane
Being hit by a driver under the influence can lead to serious, life-altering injuries. At CCD Law, we have been successfully handling pedestrian accident cases in Spokane since 1948. Our team is dedicated to gathering crucial evidence, reviewing medical records, and making sure your case is filed on time. Our top priority is making sure you get the support you need to recover from your injuries. To get the process started, contact us today for a free consultation.
