In reflecting upon the fatal hit-and-run tragedy that took place near Green Lake on Sunday evening (see January 6, 2017 Seattle Times article: ‘Hit-run suspect had victim’s grocery cart stuck to grille, charges say’) it is important to remind oneself of his or her duties when involved in a vehicle accident.
To that end, we provide the following:
Pursuant to RCW 46.52.020, when involved in an accident with another attended vehicle, a person shall immediately stop at the scene of such accident, or as close thereto as possible, and fulfill the following requirements: (1) give his or her name, address, insurance company, insurance policy number, and vehicle license number, and (2) exhibit his or her vehicle driver’s license to any person struck or injured or the driver or any occupant of, or any person attending, any such vehicle collided with, and (3)render to any person injured in such accident reasonable assistance, including the carrying or the making of arrangements for the carrying of such person to a physician or hospital for medical treatment if it is apparent that such treatment is necessary or if such carrying is requested by the injured person or on his or her behalf. It is noted that under no circumstance shall the rendering of assistance be evidence of the liability of any driver for such accident.
Pursuant to RCW 46.52.010, when involved in an accident with another vehicle that is not occupied or otherwise attended, the driver must immediately stop and either locate and notify the operator or owner of the other vehicle of his/her name and address or leave in a conspicuous place in or on the vehicle struck a written notice, giving the name and address of the operator and of the owner of the vehicle striking such other vehicle.
Sunday’s tragedy is a stark reminder that driving is a privilege not a right and that all drivers must follow the rules of our roadways.
If you or a loved one is arrested or charged with a crime, you should immediately seek the advice and/or assistance of a qualified Seattle criminal defense attorney. The Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested or charged for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the criminal allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether you are arrested or charged with misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or a felony, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900.
