Mountlake Terrace, Washington – Stolen Vehicle Crashed After Police Chase, Driver Suspected of DUI

Mountlake Terrace, Washington (May 7, 2019) – A stolen vehicle that was being chased by police was halted at the intersection of 237th Place Southwest and Cedar Way, when police used a PIT maneuver to crash the stole car. While the passenger of the car was caught in this operation, the driver fled the scene on foot, but was later located at the 23800 block of 44th Avenue West. He was caught and taken into police custody. He was treated after sustaining a dog bite from the police dog which located him, but apart from this instance there were no other reported injuries in the scene.

The chase started around 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning when the police spotted the driver on southbound Interstate 5 near State Route 525. In addition to possibly driving under influence and driving a stolen vehicle, the driver also had a felony warrant for arrest. While the chase was briefly put on hold, police managed to crash the vehicle at 237th Pl. SW and Cedar Way. When the driver fled this scene, he reportedly broke into two occupied homes in the area, before being found by police dog as he was attempting to break into a car. The driver will be booked into jail, though it is unknown if the passenger will also be jailed.

About Car Accidents

This is a case which involves a criminal element, but one must always keep in mind that there are grim statistics involved when it comes to driving under the influence. 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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