A driver leaves a bar near downtown Scranton, gets behind the wheel, and makes a decision that changes your life in seconds. Whether it happens along Wyoming Avenue, near Mulberry Street, or on I-81, a crash caused by a drunk driver can leave you with serious injuries, devastating medical bills, and questions about how you’re going to recover.
Our Scranton DUI accident lawyers understand. You are likely dealing with both physical pain and the frustration of knowing your injuries were completely preventable. At The Slocum Firm, our team helps victims of drunk driving accidents understand their rights under Pennsylvania law and what compensation may be available.
You deserve answers, accountability, and a clear path forward. Call (570) 209-7376 to speak directly with one of our attorneys 24/7 and learn what relief may be available to you.
Why You Should Choose The Slocum Firm for Your DUI Accident Case
Choosing a law firm after a DUI accident is about more than legal knowledge. You need a team that understands the seriousness of your situation, responds quickly, and is prepared to pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to.
At The Slocum Firm, P.C., we have built our reputation by delivering results while maintaining a personal, client-focused approach. A few factors that set us apart from other law firms include:
- Over 95% recovery rate for injured clients
- Millions recovered for people across Pennsylvania
- Most cases are resolved in less than one year
- More than 50 years of combined legal experience
- Direct access to our attorneys by phone or text
- Available 24/7, including nights and weekends
- No legal fees unless we recover compensation for you
When you work with our firm, you are not just another case file number. Our team takes the time to understand what you’re going through and works to build a strong claim that reflects the full impact of the accident on your life.
The Basics of a DUI Accident Claim in Pennsylvania
A DUI accident claim arises when a driver who is impaired by alcohol or drugs causes a crash that results in injuries. These cases often involve both criminal charges against the driver and a separate civil claim by the injured accident victim seeking compensation.
While the criminal case focuses on penalties such as fines or jail time, your injury claim focuses on recovering legal damages (financial payment) for what you have lost.
Common Causes of DUI Accidents in Scranton
DUI accidents often occur when impaired drivers create dangerous situations that they would not do while sober, including:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Slowed reaction times and impaired judgment
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Drifting between lanes on roads like Route 6 or I-81
- Driving at unsafe speeds
Areas near bars, restaurants, and entertainment districts in Scranton often see a higher risk of DUI-related crashes, especially during evenings and weekends.
How Pennsylvania Law Addresses Drunk Driving Accidents
Pennsylvania DUI law prohibits driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, with stricter limits for commercial drivers and minors. However, a driver can still be considered impaired even below that level if their ability to operate a vehicle is affected.
When a drunk driver causes an accident, they may be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages they cause. In some cases, additional liability may extend to other parties under Pennsylvania’s dram shop laws.
Do You Have a Viable DUI Accident Case?
You may have a DUI accident case if you were injured in a crash caused by an impaired driver. Even if you are unsure about the details, there are certain signs that may indicate a valid claim.
You may have a case if:
- The driver who hit you was arrested or suspected of DUI
- The accident involved reckless or erratic driving behavior
- You suffered injuries that required medical treatment
- You experienced financial losses, such as missed work
- There is evidence of alcohol or drug impairment
Even if the driver has not been charged or convicted of DUI, you may still be able to pursue a civil injury claim based on the available evidence. Our attorneys can review your situation and help determine your options.
Who May Be Held Liable in a DUI Accident Case?
While the impaired driver is often the primary party responsible, other parties may also share liability depending on the circumstances. Potentially liable parties may include:
- The driver who was under the influence
- A bar, restaurant, or establishment that overserved alcohol
- A social host in certain situations
- An employer, if the driver was working at the time
Pennsylvania’s dram shop laws allow injured victims to pursue claims against establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals who later cause harm. We can help identify all responsible parties and increase the potential sources of compensation available in your case.
What Compensation Is Available in a Scranton DUI Accident Lawsuit?
DUI accidents often result in serious and life-changing injuries. Compensation is designed to address both the financial and personal losses associated with your crash. Most losses are divided into two legal categories: economic and non-economic damages. Some cases may also qualify for punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages include measurable losses such as medical expenses, hospital stays, rehabilitation, lost income, and future medical care. These damages are especially important when injuries require long-term treatment or affect your ability to work.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages reflect how the accident has affected your life beyond out-of-pocket losses. This may include physical pain, emotional distress, and the inability to engage in activities you once enjoyed.
Potential for Punitive Damages
In DUI accident cases, Pennsylvania law may allow the court to award punitive damages under certain circumstances. These damages are intended to punish particularly reckless behavior and may apply when an impaired driver’s actions show a disregard for the safety of others.
What If You’re Partly at Fault for the Accident?
Even in DUI cases, the injured accident victim may share some fault for the collision. For example, questions may arise about speed, visibility, or other contributing factors.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows an injured person to recover compensation so long as they are less than 50% at fault. If you are partially responsible for your accident, your awarded compensation will likely be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
However, when a driver is under the influence, the act of driving while impaired often creates significant responsibility when determining fault. Each case depends on the specific facts and evidence.
How Insurance Companies Handle DUI Accident Claims
Insurance companies often approach DUI accident claims differently because the circumstances involve clear misconduct. While you might think it would simplify the process, it can still create challenges.
Adjusters may attempt to limit payouts by questioning the extent of your injuries or the connection between the accident and your treatment. They may also try to resolve the claim quickly before the full impact of your injuries is known.
In some cases, insurers may dispute their policyholder’s liability despite evidence of impairment. This underscores the importance of carefully evaluating any settlement offers and understanding the long-term effects of your injuries before making any legal decisions.
Having our team involved early allows us to manage these communications, review any settlement offers, and protect your interests throughout the process.
What Is the Deadline to File a DUI Accident Lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
In most cases, the Pennsylvania statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
While that may seem like a long time, partnering with our Scranton DUI accident team quickly after the accident allows us to conduct a more thorough investigation and help preserve important evidence. Delays can make it harder to build a strong case.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a DUI Accident Lawyer in Scranton?
After a serious DUI accident, financial concerns are common. At The Slocum Firm, we handle DUI accident cases on a contingency fee basis to remove any financial barriers keeping you from seeking skilled legal representation.
This means:
- You won’t pay anything up front
- We do not charge hourly legal fees
- We only receive legal fees if we recover compensation for you
This approach allows you to pursue your claim without additional financial stress and choose the best DUI accident lawyers in Scranton to fight for your rights.
What Can I Do While Recovering After a DUI Accident to Protect My Claim?
As you recover from a DUI accident, your primary focus should be on your health. However, there are steps you can take that may help support your claim and protect your financial recovery.
Following your doctor’s treatment plan is essential. Attending appointments, completing therapy, and following medical advice not only supports your recovery but also creates important documentation of your injuries.
It is also helpful to keep records of your medical care, expenses, and how your injuries affect your daily life. This may include missed work, limitations in movement, and changes to your routine.
If you are contacted by insurance companies, proceed carefully. Early settlement offers may not reflect the full impact of your injuries. Always speak with our attorneys before making legal decisions. We can help you better understand your options.
How The Slocum Firm Helps You After a DUI Accident
DUI accident cases often involve both legal and insurance complexities. Our team simplifies the process and guides you through each stage of your claim.
Our attorneys can help by:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Reviewing police reports and toxicology results
- Identifying all responsible parties
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Calculating the full value of your claim
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Preparing your case for trial, if necessary
Throughout your case, you have direct access to our attorneys. We keep you informed and focused on your recovery while we handle the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Accident Cases in Scranton
Does a DUI charge automatically mean the driver is liable for my injuries?
A DUI charge is strong evidence of negligence, but liability in a civil case is still determined based on the full set of facts. In many cases, impairment plays a major role in establishing responsibility.
Can I file a claim even if the driver was not convicted of DUI?
Yes. A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a personal injury claim. Evidence of impairment, witness statements, and accident details may still provide enough support for your case.
What is dram shop liability in Pennsylvania?
Dram shop liability allows injured victims to pursue claims against establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals who later cause harm. These claims can provide additional sources of compensation.
Will my case go to trial?
Many DUI accident cases are resolved through settlement, but some may proceed to trial if the insurance company disputes liability or damages. Each case is different, and we can review your unique situation to explain whether your claim may settle or require a trial.
How long does it take to resolve a DUI accident claim?
The timeline depends on the severity of injuries and the complexity of the case. Some claims resolve within months, while others take longer if litigation is required.
Contact the Trusted Scranton DUI Accident Lawyers at The Slocum Firm Today
A DUI accident can leave you dealing with serious injuries, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. You should not have to handle the challenges you are facing from a preventable accident on your own.
Call The Slocum Firm to speak directly with our Scranton DUI accident attorneys. We are available 24/7, and you will never pay legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Since 2009, our firm has helped injured clients across Pennsylvania recover millions of dollars of compensation, maintaining a 95% recovery rate and resolving most cases in less than a year. When you call, you will speak directly with one of our attorneys who can explain your rights and help you take the next step.
If you were injured in Scranton or anywhere in Pennsylvania, call (570) 209-7376 today for a free consultation and get the answers you need to protect your future.
