Shortly after 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 19, a vehicle crashed into the storefront of a local gift store. After arriving at the scene, local law enforcement officers found the driver next door at a liquor store. Officers had the 58-year-old King County woman perform a series of field sobriety tests, which she failed. A breathalyzer test administered at the scene registered a blood alcohol content (BAC) level nearly three times the legal limit. In the state of Washington, the legal BAC limit is .08%.
According to the store owner – as well as video surveillance – the woman did not make any visible attempts to brake or slow down before crashing into the storefront. Unfortunately, the story doesn't end there. Just an hour after being released from jail, the woman reportedly drove her husband's truck back to scene of the accident and the same liquor store.
After someone recognized her and called police, local officers determined that the woman was still intoxicated. She was arrested again and her vehicle was towed. The arrest was her second DUI arrest in a span of only a few hours.
Witnesses confirm that while the woman's actions were shocking and extremely dangerous, it was clear that she was in need of help. Such situations, while rare, are not uncommon. DUIs may be symptomatic of larger problems with drug or alcohol abuse – factors that local courts do consider when prosecuting and penalizing offenders. In many cases, individuals convicted of DUIs can be ordered to attend DUI classes or drug and alcohol treatment programs.
This case also highlights legal situations in which individuals are charged with DUIs while a previous DUI case is still pending. Depending on the circumstances, courts and prosecutors can view subsequent DUI arrests in a short time period as an aggravating factor, which may lead to more serious consequences.
If you or your loved one has recently been arrested and charged with DUI – or if a second DUI arrest was made while a first DUI case was still pending – seeking experienced legal representation is crucial. At DUIHeroes a Lynnwood DUI lawyer is prepared to immediately provide the information and representation needed to handle a wide range of DUI allegations, including cases that involve more serious and aggravating circumstances. Learn more about your case and how our firm can help by requesting a free case evaluation as soon as possible. Call toll-free (866) 620-9524 or local (425) 296-9358.