DUI Crash Claims Motorcyclist’s Life: Pribanic & Pribanic Files Wrongful Death Suit

The devastating consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) are brought into sharp focus when a DUI crash claims a motorcyclist’s life. In these tragic instances, families are often left grappling with immense grief and financial burdens. When negligence is a factor, a wrongful death lawsuit can be a crucial step in seeking justice and compensation. Pribanic & Pribanic, a personal injury law firm, has recently taken on such a case, highlighting the firm’s commitment to advocating for victims and their families in DUI-related fatalities.

The Tragic Reality of DUI and Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are inherently dangerous, offering riders minimal protection compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. When combined with the recklessness of impaired driving, the results can be catastrophic. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2023, 1,668 (26%) of 6,335 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes were drunk (BAC of .08 g/dL or higher). This statistic underscores the alarming prevalence of alcohol impairment in motorcycle fatalities.

Driving under the influence impairs critical cognitive and motor functions, increasing the risk of accidents. For motorcyclists, the effects of alcohol are magnified, impacting balance, coordination, and reaction time. This can lead to devastating consequences, not only for the rider but also for other motorists and pedestrians.

Pribanic & Pribanic Files Wrongful Death Suit

Pribanic & Pribanic, a trial law firm dedicated to representing individuals harmed by negligence, has announced its intention to file a civil lawsuit on behalf of the family of John Wobrak, a 69-year-old motorcyclist who tragically lost his life in a DUI crash in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania. The firm aims to hold all responsible parties accountable, including the bar that allegedly overserved the driver.

According to reports, Wobrak was struck head-on by a Jeep driven by a repeat DUI offender who allegedly consumed three vodka sodas at a local bar before the accident. The driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was reportedly tested at 0.142%, exceeding the legal limit. While the driver faces criminal charges, Pribanic & Pribanic seeks to pursue civil justice for the Wobrak family, shedding light on the issue of dram shop liability in Pennsylvania.

Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in DUI Cases

When a person dies due to the negligence or misconduct of another, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by the deceased’s estate or surviving family members. In DUI-related fatalities, these lawsuits aim to recover compensation for the losses suffered as a result of the death, including:

Medical Expenses: Costs incurred for the victim’s treatment from the time of the accident until their death.
Funeral and Burial Expenses: Costs associated with the funeral and burial arrangements.
Lost Income: The financial support the victim would have provided to the family if they had lived.
Loss of Companionship: The emotional support, love, and guidance the victim provided to their family.
Pain and Suffering: The physical and emotional pain the victim endured before death.

In DUI cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from similar actions.

Dram Shop Liability: Holding Establishments Accountable

In many states, including Pennsylvania, dram shop laws hold establishments that serve alcohol liable for damages caused by intoxicated patrons. If a bar or restaurant overserves a visibly intoxicated person who then causes an accident, the establishment may be held responsible for the resulting injuries or death.

Pribanic & Pribanic is advocating for increased public awareness and legislative change to address the lack of mandatory liability insurance for establishments that serve alcohol. Attorney Victor Pribanic emphasizes the need to hold “dive bars” accountable for sending “drunken missiles out on the roads to kill people.”

Seeking Justice and Compensation

Filing a wrongful death claim after a fatal DUI crash can be a complex process, involving legal and insurance issues. An experienced attorney can help families navigate these challenges and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Here are some key steps to take after losing a loved one in a DUI crash:

Seek Legal Support Immediately: Contact a wrongful death attorney to evaluate your case and pursue claims against the driver or other liable parties.
Collect Evidence: Gather police reports, BAC test results, witness statements, or crash scene photos to prove the driver’s impairment and negligence.
Document the Incident: Obtain coroner reports, medical records, or accident reconstructions to establish the cause of death and support damage claims.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Wrongful death claims after fatal DUI crashes are complex, involving criminal proceedings, insurance disputes, and comparative fault defenses. An experienced wrongful death attorney can secure critical evidence, such as toxicology reports or crash data, and negotiate or litigate to pursue fair compensation for funeral expenses, financial losses, and emotional suffering, including punitive damages when applicable.

If you have lost a loved one in a DUI crash, it is crucial to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney who can protect your rights and help you pursue justice and compensation. Contact Pribanic & Pribanic, or another reputable personal injury law firm, for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.