41-Year-Old Passenger Injured in DUI Crash on I-5 [Thurston County, WA]

Thurston County, WA (July 7, 2025) – A 41-year-old passenger was injured in a DUI crash on I-5 Saturday night.

It was around 11:15 p.m., when the collision happened near milepost 88 in Grand Mound. 

Officers said a 25-year-old man and his 41-year-old passenger, both from Chehalis, were traveling north on the freeway when their vehicle struck a left side barrier. The vehicle then crossed all lanes of the highway before it finally stopped. 

The passenger was rushed to Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia while the driver was taken to Tacoma General Hospital.

Officers suspect the driver of driving under the influence.

Did you know that every time you get behind the wheel drunk, you’re risking not just your life, but the lives of everyone on the road. A DUI crash can cause permanent injuries, loss of loved ones, and lifelong consequences. 

It is certain that one poor decision can change everything in an instant. So, don’t let alcohol cloud your judgment. Always have a plan. Designate a driver, use a ride-share app, or call a cab. Your safety and the safety of others are too important. 

Remember, driving under the influence is never worth the risk. Make the responsible choice, stay sober, stay safe.

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Personal Injury Claims After a Traffic Collision: What You Need to Know

When involved in a traffic collision, filing a personal injury claim is necessary to recover damages. This legal process allows the victims to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses caused by the traffic collision. However, the process is often complex, and understanding how it works is crucial for anyone pursuing a claim.

The first step in a personal injury claim is to determine liability. In most cases, the driver responsible for the traffic accident, which could be due to negligence, distracted driving, speeding, or other factors, will be held accountable. Establishing fault is key to securing compensation. Gathering pieces of evidence such as police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and medical records can strongly prove who was at fault.

Once liability is established, the injured party can then seek compensation for various types of damages. Medical expenses, which include hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, prescription medications, and any long-term care needs, will be a significant part of the claim. 

Additionally, if the traffic collision resulted in lost wages or has impacted the victim’s ability to work, these financial losses can also be added to the claim.

Pain and suffering, which is a more subjective form of compensation, is one of the most debated aspects of a personal injury claim. Courts and insurance companies assess this based on how severely the victim was injured and the accident’s impact on the victim’s life, including physical and emotional distress.

Do not forget about the statute of limitations, which dictates the time frame within which a claim must be filed. Failing to file within this period may result in losing the right to pursue compensation.

A personal injury claim can help you recover damages if you’re injured in a traffic collision. Seek legal counsel from Sweet Lawyers to ensure your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation.

See what our clients say or, better yet, call us today at (800) 674-7852.