Shoppers were in for a surprise Wednesday afternoon when a suspected drunk driver crashed into a TJ Max store in north Seattle, reports Q13 Fox.

The accident happened around lunch time when a 25-year-old suspect lost control of his 1973 Plymouth Scamp and barreled into the discount fashion store. After the accident, the young man and his girlfriend allegedly tried to make a getaway on foot.

However, when police arrived at the scene, the couple returned and the unidentified male driver was arrested.

The driver was taken to King County Jail and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs as well as a hit-and-run causing property damage charges. The girlfriend was not charged.

Oftentimes, the actions of a drunk driving suspect following the accident lead to more serious criminal penalties than the drunk driving charge itself. Following a DUI crash (or any car accident), the driver is expected to remain at the scene. If the driver attempts to flee, the driver could face criminal hit-and-run charges on top of the DUI.

The hit-and-run charges can lead to significant penalties even if the driver is exonerated of the DUI. In other words, even if you can prove that you were not drunk, you could end up going to jail simply because you tried to flee.

There are many possible defenses to a DUI. In addition, by working with an experienced Seattle DUI defense attorney, you may be able to argue for a favorable plea deal avoiding the most serious penalties. However, by attempting to flee the scene of an accident, your options may be more limited.

If you have any questions about a DUI charge in the Seattle or King County areas, contact the Seattle DUI attorneys at Wolff Criminal Defense. You can contact us at 425-284-2000 to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.