Lacey, Washington – Motorcyclist Killed in Crash, Car Driver Under Suspicion of DUI

Lacey, Washington (April 9, 2019) – A 33 year-old motorcyclist from Olympia was found dead on the scene of a crash at State Route 510 three miles east of Lacey. The driver of the car involved in the collision was arrested and suspected of driving while intoxicated. The other occupants of the car were three children, one of which suffered a laceration and had to be taken to a local hospital.

According to preliminary investigation, the suspected DUI driver was heading east on S.R. 510 as the motorcyclist was driving west. The car attempted to turn left and cut in front of the motorcyclist, causing the crash. The motorcycle was thrown onto the cross street, while the car went to the middle of the highway. The driver is now facing investigation for vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, DUI, and three counts of reckless endangerment, one count for each child. The crash closed down the road for 3 1/2 hours as investigation and clean-up were performed.

About Vehicle Accidents

Our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved one of the victim. Driving under influence has caused many accidents over the years. According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people die everyday from vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver, which translates to a death every 50 minutes. Additionally, 2016 data also points to 28% of all traffic-related deaths in America. Driving under influence covers not only alcohol-impaired drivers, but also those under the influence of other substances. Drugs other than alcohol accounted for 16% of vehicle crashes in 2015 data. Marijuana use in particular is rising, with 13% of nighttime weekends drivers being found with marijuana in their system. Whether impaired by alcohol, narcotics, or any other substances, the dangers of driving under influence should be clear. Driving is an activity that requires awareness at all times and following street regulations as much as possible. Being under the influence of other substances brings down road awareness, as well as closing down reflex skills and attention.

We urge everyone to be in a stable health condition before going behind the wheel. Any condition that can cause impairments on your judgement puts many people at risk, which goes not only for drivers but pedestrians as well. Aside from the obvious dangers of drunk driving, it would also help to identify busy roads and try to avoid being in their proximity to minimize any risk of a vehicle accident. Any mistake can lead to injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well. Our sympathies and compassion for anyone who was caught up in a vehicle accident due to intoxicated drivers.

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