Legal Question in Traffic Law in Washington

Civil Suit For Traffic Violation

My daughter was 16 yrs. old and lightly bumped the rear of a vehicle. No insurance. She was driving my vehicle. She got out & gave the woman her #. There was not even a scratch on her bumper & she said she was fine. There was no police report. My daughter thought the woman appeared intoxicated at the time. We moved (due to domestic reasons) & didn't forward our mail. 5 yrs. later my daughter was pulled over and told she had a suspended license (for 13 yrs) & arrested!! DOL said the reason why was a $18,000. civil judgement. Is this legal? We weren't notified. She was a minor & now what should we do? We were told to make payment arrangements by the DOL with the attorney. Please advise. Thank you.


Asked on 4/07/08, 12:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jahnis Abelite ABELITE LAW OFFICES, P.S.

Re: Civil Suit For Traffic Violation

You will have to consult with an attorney in Washington State. Obviously, the other driver filed a lawsuit and named your daughter. If they sued when she was still a minor, which fact you do not know, then they also shoul dhave named you as the parent or guardian as well as the vehicle's owner, presumably you. This matter has to be investigated thoroughly with local legal counsel. There is no simple answer suchas no they cannot do that or yes they can. The answer is "it depends" upon all of the facts and circumstances of the case and situation. Good Luck!

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Answered on 4/22/08, 5:49 pm


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