Highway 97 Two Car Collision Caused by Drunk Driver

Date: January 12, 2011
Location: Highway 97 near Redmond
Names: Deneice Tibbets, Stephanie Baldwin

A Prineville woman was arrested for DUII following a two car collision on Highway 97 near Redmond. According to a news release from Oregon State Police, Deneice Tibbets, age 25 of Prineville, was driving a 2006 Dodge Stratus south on Highway 97 near milepost 126. Tibbets was seen passing cars and lost control of her car as she passed the last car in line. Tibbets lost control of her car, crossed three traffic lanes, and crashed into a 2005 Honda Accord being driven north by Stephanie Baldwin, age 27 of Bend.

After her arrest for DUII, Tibbets was booked into the Deschutes County jail. Fortunately, neither Tibbets nor Baldwin were injured in the collision.

We’re glad that no one was hurt in what could have easily ended in tragedy.

Although the facts of this case are not clear yet, when a drunk driver causes an injury accident in Oregon, there is a possibility of suing the person or bar who served the alcohol. This must be done correctly, and quickly. There are strict time limits for filing a lawsuit in Oregon, and where alcohol is involved, the limits get even stricter. A Dram Shop Notice must be received by the server within 180 days of the incident, pursuant to ORS 471.565.

We encourage people to educate themselves on the law of drunk driving in Oregon, and we provide free information to help you settle your lawsuit without an attorney. But when a drunk driver is involved, the law becomes very tricky, and you should contact an experienced Portland accident attorney.