Hit by driver high on marijuana – Do I have a case?

Recreational marijuana may be legal in Washington, but driving under the influence is still illegal. Even if a driver is below the legal limit, being high could impair a driver’s judgment resulting in an accident.

In June, 2014, Caleb Floyd of Bellevue smoked marijuana and then drove his car. As he approached an intersection, Floyd attempted to make a left turn across oncoming traffic, directly into the path of 23-year-old Blake Gaston, who was riding a motorcycle. Gaston couldn’t avoid hitting the car, and was killed in the collision.

Last week, Floyd was sentenced to 34 months in prison for vehicular homicide and DUI. He will also be required to serve 18 months of community service. Of course, none of this will bring back Gaston, or help his family deal with his loss.

Any time a driver operates his vehicle carelessly, causing injury or death to someone else, that driver could have civil responsibility for the injuries inflicted. When the driver is high on marijuana, or any mind-altering substance, the likelihood is increased that his judgment is impaired.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a driver who was high on marijuana, alcohol, or any recreational or prescription drug, make sure you have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.

For more information read the Seattle Times article here.

Matthew D. Dubin

Matthew D. Dubin has represented injured people throughout Washington since 1995. He is the founding attorney of Dubin Law Group and focuses his practice on personal injury claims involving motor vehicle accidents, dangerous products, premises liability, catastrophic injuries, and wrongful death.

Education

• License Number: 25378
• University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, Washington – J.D.
• Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut – B.A.

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