Drunk driving places innocent lives at risk every single day. Despite years of public awareness campaigns and severe legal penalties, it remains a leading cause of accidents across Pennsylvania. Nearly one-third of all road fatalities in the state are linked to drivers who chose to operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, you have the right to seek justice and pursue compensation. At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, our experienced Pittsburgh drunk driving accident attorneys are here to guide you through this difficult time.
Understanding DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania takes driving under the influence (DUI) very seriously. The state prohibits anyone from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
Penalties for DUI offenses escalate based on the driver’s BAC level:
- BAC between 0.08% and 0.10% – Fines, driver’s license suspension, and possible probation.
- BAC between 0.10% and 0.16% – Increased fines, longer suspensions, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and potential jail time.
- BAC 0.16% or higher – The most severe penalties, including extended jail sentences, higher fines, and lengthy license suspensions.
For drunk drivers who cause accidents, the stakes are even higher. Victims have the right to file claims or lawsuits against at-fault drivers to recover damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Our attorneys have the experience to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to after such a traumatic event.
Recognizing the Signs of Drunk Driving
Alcohol impairs a driver's ability to make quick decisions and respond to road conditions. Drunk driving can be identified through several warning signs.
Common indicators include but are not limited to:
- Swerving or weaving across lanes
- Driving unusually fast or slow
- Ignoring traffic signals or signs
- Crossing the centerline or median
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Failing to turn on headlights at night
- Honking or erratic behavior behind the wheel
Passengers should also remain vigilant. If the person driving you appears intoxicated, do not get into the vehicle. Courts may view your decision to ride with an impaired driver as partially responsible for your injuries in an accident.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you're involved in a drunk driving accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming.
It’s crucial to stay calm and follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Ensure Safety: Move yourself and others to a safe location, away from traffic, if possible.
- Call for Help: Contact the police and emergency medical services immediately.
- Gather Information: Collect the drunk driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, vehicle description, and insurance information.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These can serve as vital evidence.
- Speak with Witnesses: Obtain contact information and statements from anyone who saw the accident occur.
- Avoid Confrontation: While it’s natural to feel anger toward the at-fault driver, remain calm and avoid escalating the situation.
The police will likely conduct a BAC test on the suspected drunk driver. This is an essential piece of evidence that can support your claim.
Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Law Explained
Under Pennsylvania law, responsibility for a drunk driving accident may extend beyond the driver. Thanks to Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Law, establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals can be held liable for damages caused by those individuals in accidents.
This means if the at-fault driver was served alcohol at a bar, restaurant, or nightclub while visibly impaired, you may be able to file a claim against that establishment.
For the Dram Shop Law to apply, the establishment must hold a valid liquor license, and you must prove the driver was visibly intoxicated when served.
Social hosts, on the other hand, are generally not held liable for serving alcohol to adults who later cause accidents. However, if alcohol is served to minors, the host may be held responsible for resulting damages.
Understanding who can be held liable in your case is critical. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling Dram Shop claims and will thoroughly investigate all sources of liability to maximize your compensation.
Why You Need a Pittsburgh Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
Navigating a DUI accident claim can be complex. Between dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and determining liability, the process is often overwhelming—especially for someone recovering from injuries.
Here’s how our dedicated attorneys can help:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We will assess the details of your accident and advise you on your legal options.
- Expert Investigation: Our team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a strong case.
- Maximizing Compensation: We fight to recover all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, emotional suffering, and punitive damages.
- Personalized Guidance: Every case is unique, and we’re committed to providing tailored solutions that meet your needs.
At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, we are passionate about holding negligent drivers and establishments accountable for the harm they cause.
DUI Accident Victim? Get Legal Help Now
Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet their impact can last a lifetime. If you or someone you love has been injured—or worse—in a DUI-related crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our skilled Pittsburgh drunk driving accident attorneys are here to provide the support and expertise you need to take action.
Contact us online or by phone at (412) 391-7610 to schedule a free consultation. At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, we are ready to advocate for your rights and help your family move forward. Together, we can pursue justice and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
