Pittsburgh Law Firm Files Civil Suit After DUI Crash Kills Motorcyclist: Seeking Justice and Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
The statistics surrounding drunk driving accidents are alarming. In Pennsylvania alone, alcohol was involved in at least 8,337 car accidents in 2023, resulting in 308 fatalities and thousands of injuries. These preventable tragedies leave families devastated and searching for answers. When a DUI crash results in death, the pursuit of justice often extends beyond criminal charges to include civil lawsuits aimed at holding all responsible parties accountable. Recently, a Pittsburgh law firm has taken such action, filing a civil suit after a DUI crash claimed the life of a motorcyclist.
The Tragic Incident
On March 14, 2025, John Wobrak, a 69-year-old motorcyclist, was riding his Harley Davidson in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania, when he was struck head-on by a Jeep driven by William Haughey Jr. Police reports indicate that Haughey crossed into oncoming traffic after allegedly consuming three vodka sodas at Beer Belly’s Bar and Grill in West Elizabeth. Haughey’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was later measured at 0.142%, well above the legal limit of 0.08% in Pennsylvania. Haughey now faces multiple criminal charges related to the incident.
Pribanic & Pribanic Files Civil Suit
In October 2025, the personal injury law firm Pribanic & Pribanic announced that it would file a civil lawsuit on behalf of the Wobrak family. The lawsuit seeks to hold Haughey accountable for his negligent actions and to pursue justice for the victim’s family.
Understanding Civil Lawsuits in DUI Cases
While criminal charges aim to punish the drunk driver, a civil lawsuit seeks to compensate the victim or their family for the losses they have suffered. These losses can include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs associated with treating injuries sustained in the accident.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to the inability to work.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged vehicles or property.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation to family members for the loss of companionship and support.
- Funeral Expenses: Costs associated with burial.
In particularly egregious cases, such as those involving drunk driving, punitive damages may also be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the defendant for their reckless conduct and deter others from similar behavior.
Dram Shop Liability: Holding Bars Accountable
In addition to pursuing legal action against the drunk driver, the Wobrak family’s lawsuit also targets Beer Belly’s Bar and Grill, the establishment that allegedly overserved Haughey. This aspect of the case involves Pennsylvania’s “dram shop” laws.
Dram shop laws hold establishments that serve alcohol liable for damages caused by their intoxicated patrons. Under Pennsylvania law, a liquor licensee can be held responsible if:
- They served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated, and
- That service was a direct cause of the injuries or death that followed.
To establish liability under dram shop laws, it must be proven that the bar’s employees knew or should have known that Haughey was visibly intoxicated when they continued to serve him alcohol. Evidence such as witness testimony, security footage, and Haughey’s behavior leading up to the crash can be used to support this claim.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Navigating the complexities of a civil lawsuit, especially one involving a DUI crash and dram shop liability, can be challenging. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence to establish fault and liability.
- Identifying All Responsible Parties: Pursuing claims against the drunk driver and any other negligent parties, such as the bar that overserved them.
- Calculating Damages: Assessing the full extent of the victim’s losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit and Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can file a lawsuit and advocate for your rights in court.
Pennsylvania DUI Laws and Penalties
Pennsylvania has strict laws and penalties for driving under the influence (DUI). The penalties for a DUI conviction vary depending on the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) and any prior offenses.
Even first-time DUI offenders face serious consequences, including:
- Jail time
- Fines
- License suspension
- Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
Repeat DUI offenders face even harsher penalties, including felony charges, lengthy prison sentences, and permanent license revocation.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to note that there are time limits for filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania. Generally, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this timeframe may result in losing the right to seek compensation.
Seeking Justice for Victims of DUI Crashes
Drunk driving is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences. When a DUI crash results in injury or death, victims and their families have the right to seek justice and hold all responsible parties accountable. By filing a civil lawsuit, they can recover compensation for their losses and help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI crash in Pittsburgh, it is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights and options. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.