Pennsylvania Drunk Driving Laws

Like other states, Pennsylvania has a legal BAC limit of 0.08. The higher a driver’s BAC, the more dangerous and likely they will be in a collision.

The criminal penalties will vary but may look like:

• First-time offense: six months in jail and fines plus installing an ignition interlock device. 
• Subsequent offenses can result in five years of incarceration and fines in the tens of thousands. 

Some repeat offenders may have to attend Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ADR). This is a program that helps avoid prison time. It can also lead to an expungement of the criminal offense. This does not apply to every case since it might not be adequate justice in some situations.

Additionally, other parties aside from the driver can share responsibility. Hosts and restaurant or bar owners can also bear some responsibility. However, you must meet stipulations to hold these parties responsible, such as the driver’s age and their visible intoxication.

You May Be Able to Recover Damages

Following a drunk driving accident, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries and other losses. You have to prove negligence and the cost of these injuries to obtain compensation, however.

Economic and non-economic damages can be available for losses such as:

• Nursing care and assisted living 
• Medical expenses 
• Ongoing medical treatment 
• Pain and suffering 
• Loss of enjoyment of life 
• Mental and emotional distress 
• Lost income and future earning capacity 

Other losses can be available, such as out-of-pocket expenses and loss of consortium. If a loved one dies from a drunk driving collision, the surviving family can file a claim to recover additional losses in some cases. Always keep track of your losses and provide documentation to your Pennsylvania drunk driving accident attorney.