Ramon Camacho of Wapato is in critical condition in a Seattle hospital after a Seattle car accident, according to an article in the Yakima Herald-Republic. Camacho was riding a tractor on Clark Road when he was rear-ended by the driver of a Ford Focus the night of May 5, 2009. The driver of the car, 52-year-old Joy Douglas, is under investigation for vehicular assault, Washington State Patrol officials said. Douglas was not personally injured. A passenger in the Focus — 42-year-old Traci Bennett, was also uninjured. Police say the use of intoxicants played a role in this Washington car accident.
My heart goes out to the personal injury victim Ramon Camacho and his family who must be going through a very hard time. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep him in your prayers.
I trust this DUI accident will be thoroughly investigated and that Joy Douglas is held fully accountable for her actions. Washington State Law clearly states that driving under the influence – whether it involves alcohol, drugs or intoxicants – is a crime. RCW 46.61.502 states: “A person is guilty of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug if the person drives a vehicle within this state: (a) And the person has within two hours after driving an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher… (b) While the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor or any drug; or (c) while the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor and any drug.”
The Ford driver should not only be criminally prosecuted, but also held financially responsible for the damages, personal injuries and loss she has caused Camacho and his family. Camacho will be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, pain and suffering and other related damages. He would be well advised to consult with reputed Washington car accident lawyers, who are particularly experienced with DUI cases. Camacho and his family need someone who will fight for their rights and make sure they get the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve.