Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC | Washington Legal Blog

Nisqually River drunk boater sentenced in deaths of three people | Thurston County boat accident attorney

A Thurston County judge sentenced Vincent Farler to six years and three months in prison for operating a boat while under the influence (BUI) of alcohol June 12, 2008 causing the deaths of three people when it capsized on the Nisqually River.  His blood alcohol content was 0.19 which is more than twice the legal limit of 0.08.

Cameron McCartney, 9; his younger brother Sean McCartney, 5; and Bryan L. Pierce, 32, all drowned after Farler's boat capsized after running into a logjam.  Farler and the McCartney boys' mother, Erin McCartney, were able to make it safely to shore.

An interesting bit of information revealed that Farler admitted he had been drinking at the Cedar Inn Tavern with his father before the boating accident, court papers state.  This may impose liability against the tavern for serving Farler if it can be proven that he was obviously intoxicated at the tavern and they still served him drinks.

In cases of wrongful death, your attorney should discover whatever coverages are available including boat liability coverage, insurance from the tavern, and any excess or umbrella policies that may also provide additional layers of coverage.  If you have any questions about a boat accident or injury claim, you can contact us at the Andrew Kim Law Firm, PLLC and call us toll free at 1-800-636-3676 for a consultation.