A multi-vehicle auto accident that happened last weekend was caused by driving under the influence of alcohol. The accident occurred near Mt. Vernon, Washington on December 6th. According to the Skagit County Sheriff’s Department, 43-year-old Michael J. Stephenson was operating his vehicle along Francis Road when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with another vehicle. The driver of that vehicle, 49-year-old Jill Elwick, was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Elwick’s son and daughter were passengers in her vehicle, but fortunately, they were uninjured. Stephenson struck other vehicles, but it is unknown if any other injuries were sustained. Prosecutors have not formally charged Stephenson but are holding him on suspicion of driving under the influence, vehicular assault, and vehicular manslaughter. His bail has been set at $250,000. Court records indicate that Stephenson has a previous DUI charge in Utah.
Drunk driving accidents are the most preventable and most deadly of all auto accidents. According to Mother’s Against Drunk Driving, drunk driving accidents claim the lives of 28 individuals each day. These accidents occur so frequently that every two of three people will be involved in a DUI accident at some point during their lifetime. Have you, a loved one, or a friend been injured or killed in a DUI accident? Statistically, it is likely that your answer is yes. Consulting a DUI accident attorney can help determine if you have grounds for a case.
The experienced DUI accident attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth will gather all evidence and examine all aspects of your case to represent you successfully. Our attorneys take pride in fighting to hold any negligent party accountable for the damages they’ve caused while supporting our clients during the process. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a DUI accident, contact us today.