Memorial Day Weekend is a time to honor and celebrate those who fought for our country, and this often involves drinks. While it is perfectly acceptable to ring in the summer season with a few red, white, and blue cocktails, things become dangerous when people choose to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol. If you have been injured in a car accident due to a drunk driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation. Read on to learn more about drunk driving accidents in Pennsylvania.
Fulfilling the Burden of Proof
When it comes to a personal injury case, it is important to obtain proof that your injury was caused by another party’s negligence. In order to do so, you should take the following steps:
- Call 911- The police will administer field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer test to help determine the driver’s intoxcity.
- Document the scene- Take pictures and videos at the scene of the accident. Document damage done to any vehicles or property involved.
- Seek medical attention- Many people attempt to recover from their injuries on their own. This is generally not a good idea. This is because your injuries may not heal correctly without medical intervention. Additionally, going to the hospital will provide you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries.
Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop laws
If the other driver was negligently served alcohol at a liquor store, bar or restaurant, the server, bartender or the owner may be held liable under Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop law if it can be found that an establishment served a visibly intoxicated customer and that service led to an accident involving property damage, serious injury, or death.
What is the Statute of Limitations?
If you wish to take legal action, you should begin the process as soon as possible. This is because of a deadline known as the statute of limitations. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within two years will likely mean losing your opportunity to lose the compensation you need and deserve to heal from your injuries. Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney to avoid missing any important deadlines.
Our firm has extensive experience representing victims of drunk driving accidents and we are ready to help you too. Reach out today to speak with a skilled and dedicated attorney.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
We understand that going through the legal system alone can be both confusing and highly stressful. That is why it is our job to help you through every step of the process ahead. For years, we have been helping clients throughout Lancaster County and its surrounding areas through a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury cases, criminal defense matters, family law issues, estate planning law matters, and more. If you need legal assistance, we are here to help. Contact Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today.
