On Saturday June 28, a 26-year-old man was taken into custody after allegedly driving erratically at very high rates of speed in downtown Lynnwood. According to officials from the Lynnwood police department, the suspect was driving approximately 80 mph on Martin Luther King Jr. Way S. – a 30 mph zone. He was spotted by a police officer after turning onto S. Othello St.
In addition to driving 50 mph above the posted speed limit, the man was also seen driving on sidewalks and through hedges. Officers initially lost sight of the man's vehicle because of his dangerous speed, but eventually apprehended him after he collided into a parked, unoccupied vehicle.
Officials report that the man did not have any obvious injuries but was transported to Harborview Medical Center. He was arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence after a drug recognition expert officer responded to HMC.
DUI & Aggravating Circumstances
This incident highlights an important issue in DUI cases – aggravating circumstances. In cases where drivers exhibit extremely dangerous and reckless behavior, prosecutors may view the behavior as an aggravating circumstance. In this case, the driver allegedly:
- Was traveling at an excessively high rate of speed
- Was driving on sidewalks and into hedges
- Crashed into a vehicle
All of these factors are considered carefully during DUI cases. Because they indicate extremely reckless and negligent behavior, the man can potentially face additional charges or elevated charges and penalties. The man's behavior was extremely dangerous, and it is fortunate that no one was injured. Authorities and prosecutors focus on this when seeking conviction.
If you or your loved one has been charged for DUI with aggravating circumstances involved – including reckless driving or DUI accidents – the need for experienced legal representation is elevated. To discuss your case with proven Lynnwood DUI lawyer Jonathan Dichter, call 866-620-9524 for a free case evaluation.