Stronger DUI Victim Protections Under Extended Look-Back Period
One of the most significant changes for 2026 involves Washington’s impaired driving laws. The “look back” period for felony DUI charges has been extended from 10 to 15 years. This means prosecutors can now consider DUI offenses from the past 15 years when determining if a driver should face felony charges for repeat offenses.
What does this mean for injury victims? If you’ve been hurt by a drunk driver, there’s now a greater likelihood that repeat offenders will face more serious criminal consequences. This extended look-back period reflects Washington’s commitment to holding impaired drivers accountable and keeping our roads safer. While criminal prosecution is separate from your civil injury claim, stronger criminal penalties can sometimes influence insurance settlement negotiations and demonstrate the severity of the at-fault driver’s conduct.
Additionally, new treatment alternatives are now available for certain DUI offenders through deferred prosecution programs. While these changes primarily affect those charged with DUI, victims should understand that an offender’s participation in treatment programs doesn’t eliminate their civil liability. You still have full rights to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, regardless of the criminal case outcome.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk or impaired driver, contact the Law Offices of Michael Clark for a free consultation. We ensure that victims aren’t overlooked when offenders receive second chances, and we fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
Expanded Workers’ Compensation Protections for Injured Workers
Washington’s workers’ compensation system has also received significant updates for 2026. New legislation expands the duty of good faith and fair dealing to all self-insured employers throughout the state. Previously, these protections only applied to certain municipal and firefighter employers.
What does this mean for injured workers? If you’re seriously injured on the job, employers and their insurance administrators must now treat your claim fairly or face substantial penalties—including fines ranging from one to 52 times the average weekly wage depending on violation severity.
Specifically, this law protects you if your employer or their insurance has:
- Unreasonably delayed or denied medical treatment
- Refused to pay benefits you’re entitled to receive
- Failed to follow workers’ compensation rules and procedures
- Acted in bad faith in handling your claim
This expanded protection gives injured workers more leverage when dealing with self-insured employers who might otherwise drag their feet on legitimate claims. You can learn more about Washington’s Labor and Industries system here.
If you’ve been injured on the job and are facing resistance from your employer or their insurance, contact us today. We can help you understand your full rights under the new law and pursue the benefits you deserve.
Enhanced Protections for Vulnerable Road Users
Washington State continues to strengthen protections for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users. With shorter daylight hours in January, pedestrian accidents increase dramatically as drivers have reduced visibility and pedestrians are harder to see.
These enhanced protections recognize that those outside of vehicles deserve safe passage and hold drivers to higher standards of care when sharing the road. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle while walking, running, or cycling, these strengthened laws support your right to fair compensation.
The Washington State Department of Transportation provides resources on pedestrian safety here.
Winter Safety Reminders: Simple Steps That Save Lives
While new laws provide important protections, prevention remains the best strategy. January’s dark evenings, wet roads, and slippery conditions significantly increase accident risks throughout Tacoma and Western Washington. Here are critical safety reminders:
- Always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts remain your best protection in a collision, reducing the risk of death by 45% and serious injury by 50%.
- Slow down in wet conditions. Wet leaves and standing water can be as dangerous as ice. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
- Use your headlights. Even during the day, headlights improve your visibility to other drivers in rainy or foggy conditions.
- Watch for pedestrians. With darkness falling earlier, pedestrians are harder to see. Slow down in residential areas and expect pedestrians at all crosswalks.
- Maintain your vehicle. Check your tires, brakes, windshield wipers, lights, and battery to ensure your car is ready for winter weather.
- Never drive impaired. With ongoing celebrations through Super Bowl season, remember that drunk driving remains one of the most preventable causes of serious accidents.
Don’t Let Unresolved Claims Carry Into Another Year
Is 2026 the year you finally address that unresolved accident claim? Many people put off seeking legal help, but waiting can hurt your case. Washington State has specific time limits for filing personal injury claims, and evidence can disappear over time. If you were injured in 2024 or 2025 and haven’t received fair compensation, make this the year you take action. Our free consultations provide clarity on your rights with zero obligation.
Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, motorcycle crash, slip and fall, workplace injury, or pedestrian accident, the Law Offices of Michael Clark can help. We understand the challenges injury victims face and we fight to level the playing field against insurance companies.
Start 2026 informed, protected, and empowered. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you or your family. Contact us today for your free, confidential consultation. Together, we’ll review the new legal protections available to you and develop a strategy to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing your future.