Memorial Day is an important holiday, and like most national holidays, there may be drinking involved. Unfortunately, some people will choose to drink and drive. Drinking and driving puts a number of lives at risk and can cause serious accidents. If you have been injured by a drunk driver, you will need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Read on to learn more about drunk driving accidents in Pennsylvania.
Who is Responsible for a Drunk Driving Accident?
When someone makes the decision to drive drunk, they should be held responsible for any damages they cause. But, the driver may not be the only one held responsible. You may be able to hold a bar or establishment responsible for overserving the driver. The establishment may be held responsible in the following cases:
- The restaurant continued to serve a patron who was visibly intoxicated. Visible intoxication can include slurred speech, stumbling, etc.
- The restaurant served someone under the age of 21.
Fulfilling the Burden of Proof
After an accident, it is important to take the following steps:
- Call the police, as they will send an ambulance and require the driver to submit to chemical testing (eg. a breathalyzer test).
- Ask any witnesses of the accident for their name, phone number, and email address.
- Take pictures of the accident, including any damage to your car or the other motorist’s car.
- Seek immediate medical treatment.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim?
If you have sustained injuries in a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation. Additionally, if a loved one was killed by a drunk driver, you can pursue legal action on their behalf. When it comes to taking legal action, it is important to act quickly. This is because of a deadline known as the statute of limitations. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within two years will most likely mean losing your opportunity to recover the compensation you deserve. If you are recovering from serious injuries or mourning the loss of a loved one, it is easy to miss important deadlines. An experienced attorney can help you file your claim in time. Do not hesitate to reach out.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Pennsylvania, contact our firm today. We are here to advocate for you and we will fight to recover the compensation you deserve.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
