DUI Crash Aftermath: Pribanic & Pribanic to File Civil Suit for Motorcyclist Killed by Drunk Driver

The roar of a motorcycle, the open road, the sense of freedom – all tragically cut short. In Pennsylvania, a disturbing number of traffic fatalities involve drunk drivers, leaving families shattered and seeking justice. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 30% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers. Pribanic & Pribanic, a personal injury law firm, is stepping up to fight for those families, announcing their intent to file a civil suit on behalf of the family of a motorcyclist killed by a repeat DUI offender.

The Tragic Incident

On March 14, 2025, John Wobrak, a 69-year-old motorcyclist, was riding his Harley Davidson in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania. His ride was cut short when William Haughey Jr. driving a Jeep crossed into oncoming traffic and struck Wobrak head-on. Haughey, allegedly under the influence after consuming three vodka sodas at a local bar, had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.142%, well over the legal limit in Pennsylvania.

This devastating incident highlights the dangers of driving under the influence, especially the vulnerability of motorcyclists who lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. Motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in drunk driving fatalities. Data shows that 28% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had alcohol impairment.

Criminal Charges vs. Civil Suit: Understanding the Difference

William Haughey Jr. faces multiple criminal charges related to the DUI crash. In Pennsylvania, the penalties for a DUI vary based on the individual’s BAC and prior offenses. A first offense with a high BAC (0.10% to 0.159%) can result in:

48 hours to six months in jail.
Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Mandatory participation in alcohol highway safety school.
One-year ignition interlock device requirement.
A 12-month driver’s license suspension.
Possible treatment ordered by the court.

However, criminal charges and penalties, while important, do not fully address the needs of the victim’s family. This is where a civil lawsuit comes into play. A civil suit allows the family to seek compensation for their losses, including:

Funeral expenses
Medical bills incurred before death
Loss of the victim’s future earnings
Pain and suffering
Loss of companionship

Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

Pribanic & Pribanic aims to hold all responsible parties accountable for Wobrak’s death. This includes not only the drunk driver, Haughey, but also Beer Belly’s Bar and Grill, the establishment that allegedly overserved him.

Pennsylvania’s dram shop law can hold establishments liable for damages caused by intoxicated patrons they served. To establish dram shop liability, it must be proven that the bar served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then caused an accident.

Attorney Victor Pribanic, representing the Wobrak family, emphasizes the need for increased accountability for establishments that overserve patrons: “Dive bars that don’t have to have liability insurance send drunken missiles out on the roads to kill people. It’s all too common. Innocent families are left fractured, without recourse, and forgotten by the law.”

The Issue of Dram Shop Liability and Insurance

A key point of contention in this case, and many others like it, is the lack of mandatory liability insurance for bars in Pennsylvania. This means that many establishments that serve alcohol are not adequately insured to cover the damages caused by their intoxicated patrons.

Pribanic & Pribanic is advocating for legislative change to address this issue, calling for increased public awareness and mandatory liability insurance for establishments that serve alcohol. This would help ensure that victims of DUI accidents have access to the compensation they deserve.

Advice for Victims and Families of DUI Crashes

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a DUI crash, it is crucial to take the following steps:

Seek immediate medical attention: Your health and well-being are the top priority.
Contact law enforcement: File a police report and ensure the incident is properly investigated.
Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney: A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and guide you through the legal process.
Gather evidence: Collect any information related to the crash, such as photos, witness statements, and medical records.
Do not communicate with the insurance company without your attorney present: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, so it is important to have legal representation.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the legal aftermath of a DUI crash can be complex and overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

Investigating the crash and gathering evidence
Identifying all responsible parties
Negotiating with insurance companies
Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court
Maximizing your compensation

Pribanic & Pribanic has a proven track record of representing victims in DUI accident cases, including dram shop liability claims. They understand the challenges faced by families who have lost loved ones due to drunk driving and are committed to fighting for justice on their behalf.

Conclusion

The tragic death of John Wobrak serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Pribanic & Pribanic’s decision to file a civil suit on behalf of his family is a crucial step towards holding all responsible parties accountable and seeking justice for the victim. By raising awareness about the issue of dram shop liability and advocating for legislative change, they are working to prevent future tragedies and protect innocent families from the devastating effects of DUI crashes.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a DUI accident, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Pribanic & Pribanic today for a consultation and learn how they can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.