Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states, yet people continue to get behind the wheel while intoxicated every day. This dangerous driving practice puts everyone on the road at an increased risk. If you or someone you love has been involved in a car, truck or pedestrian accident caused by a drunk driver, a Pittsburgh car accident attorney from Balzarini & Watson can fight for you. You deserve maximum financial compensation after an accident of this magnitude. Let our firm act as your advocates to hold the negligent driver accountable for your injuries.

A drunk driver involved in a vehicle accident is not only subject to criminal penalties, but also can be held liable to the full extent of the law for monetary damages to victims injured or killed in a drunk driving accident. This is true even if the accident victim previously chose to limit his or her right to sue by selecting “Limited Tort” insurance coverage. In appropriate cases, drunk drivers can also be held liable for a special type of damages called “punitive damages” under Pennsylvania law, which may be substantial since they are intended to punish and deter reckless conduct.

In some cases, Pennsylvania law provides that the seller of alcohol to a drunk driver can also be found legally responsible to accident victims if alcohol continued to be provided even after the driver was obviously impaired and unfit to operate a vehicle. These cases are sometimes called “Dram Shop” actions.

Balzarini & Watson has successfully represented numerous victims and the survivors of victims of drunken driving accidents over the past 50 years, and have recovered millions of dollars in jury awards, and compensation for our clients in these tragic circumstances. Trust our experience.

Statistically, more than 10,000 people are killed because of drunk drivers every year. These traffic accidents are completely preventable. They are caused by drivers who negligently get behind the wheel even though they know they are in no condition to drive. Listed below are some more shocking statistics about drinking and driving in the United States.

• Drunk drivers who cause fatal crashes are most commonly in the age group of 21 to 24 years old
• People who drive with more than the legal limit of alcohol in their system are four times more likely to have had a prior DUI/DWI conviction, meaning many of these accidents are caused by repeat offenders.
• A majority of drunk drivers who cause fatal collisions were driving with a BAC of .15 percent or higher, about double the legal limit.

People who drink and drive can be criminally charged with DUI, but when those drunk drivers cause accidents, the victims may be able to take civil action as well.