Driving under the influence remains one of the most persistent and deadly threats on Pennsylvania’s roads. Despite public awareness campaigns and harsher penalties, DUI-related crashes are rising again—putting innocent lives at risk every day. For victims and their families, these crashes often mean a long road to recovery, trauma, and questions about accountability.

This article examines Pennsylvania’s latest DUI crash statistics, explains your rights as a victim, and outlines how legal action can help secure justice and compensation.

The State of DUI Crashes in Pennsylvania (2023 Data)

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Crash Facts & Statistics report for 2023:

• There were 8,218 alcohol-related crashes across the state, representing a 6.5% increase from 2022.
  
  
• 395 people died in alcohol-involved crashes—accounting for nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities in Pennsylvania.
  
  
• The highest percentage of drivers involved in DUI crashes was between the ages of 21 and 35.
  
  
• Weekends and nighttime hours (especially between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.) accounted for the highest number of incidents.
  
  
• Urban areas like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Allentown remain hot spots, but rural counties have seen an uptick in per-capita fatalities.
  
  

The rise in fatalities from impaired driving is not limited to alcohol. Drugged driving—especially involving cannabis, opioids, or a combination—is an emerging concern that continues to complicate enforcement and prevention strategies.

Legal Consequences for DUI Offenders in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s DUI laws are structured around a three-tier penalty system based on blood alcohol content (BAC) and prior offenses:

First-time offenders with BAC levels between 0.08% and 0.099% may face probation and mandatory alcohol safety school.

• Higher BAC levels (0.10% and above) or repeat offenses can lead to license suspension, jail time, mandatory treatment, and steep fines.
  
  
• Drivers impaired by drugs, or those causing injury or death, face felony charges under Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code.
  
  
• However, criminal prosecution focuses on penalizing the offender—not compensating the victim. For that, civil legal action is necessary.

Your Legal Rights as a DUI Crash Victim

If you’ve been injured—or if a loved one has been killed—by a drunk or drug-impaired driver, Pennsylvania law gives you the right to seek damages through a civil claim. This process is separate from any criminal proceedings and may entitle you to compensation for:

• Emergency and ongoing medical bills
  
  
• Loss of income or earning capacity
  
  
• Property damage
  
  
• Pain and suffering
  
  
• Emotional trauma
  
  
• Funeral and burial expenses (in fatal cases)
  
  
• Loss of companionship or support for the surviving family
  
  

Pennsylvania’s civil courts may also award punitive damages in DUI cases where the driver’s conduct was reckless or malicious, sending a strong message that endangering lives will not be tolerated.

Special Legal Considerations in DUI Victim Cases

Dram Shop Liability Under Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop Law, alcohol-serving establishments such as bars or restaurants may also be held liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later caused a DUI crash. This adds a critical layer of accountability in cases where business negligence played a role.

Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers Many DUI offenders have minimal or no insurance. If you hold uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your own policy may be used to cover medical costs or damages. These claims are complex and often require experienced legal guidance to navigate successfully.

Time Limit to File a Claim Pennsylvania imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations for personal injury or wrongful death claims stemming from a DUI crash. The clock starts ticking from the date of injury (or the date of death in fatal cases), so it’s vital to act quickly to preserve your rights.

How Frischman & Rizza Can Help

At Frischman & Rizza, we are committed to fighting for the rights of DUI crash victims across Pennsylvania. Our legal team offers decades of experience in handling catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and complex liability cases—including dram shop litigation and uninsured motorist claims.

Here’s how we help:

• We investigate the crash thoroughly, working with toxicology and accident reconstruction experts.
  
  
• We calculate the full extent of damages, including future medical needs and emotional distress.
  
  
• We pursue every liable party, from the impaired driver to negligent establishments.
  
  
• We handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if needed.
  
  

Most importantly, we provide compassionate legal support during a time when you need it most—helping you rebuild with strength and dignity.

For more information on related topics like auto injury and car accident claims, explore our insights to better understand your legal options.

Let’s Make Pennsylvania Roads Safer Together

Drunk and drugged driving is preventable. If you or a loved one has been harmed by an impaired driver, don’t face the aftermath alone. Let Frischman & Rizza help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the justice you deserve.

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with a Pennsylvania DUI crash victim attorney. Your recovery and peace of mind matter—and we’re here to fight for both.