Washington law requires all drivers to obey traffic signals, stop signs and other traffic control devices. According to the Revised Code of Washington Section 46.61.050: “The driver of any vehicle, every bicyclist, and every pedestrian shall obey the instructions of any official traffic control device applicable thereto placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer, subject to the exception granted the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle in this chapter.”

The woman in this case was in violation of this law. If she is found to have been under the influence, that would be an even more serious violation of the law and she could face criminal charges such as vehicular homicide or manslaughter. Where negligence or wrongdoing is concerned, families of deceased car accident victims can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party seeking compensation for funeral expenses, loss of earnings and other related damages.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Washington car accident, please contact the experienced Tacoma personal injury lawyer. You can learn more about your accident case and how to protect your rights.