While it is clear how drinking and driving can affect your life, people guilty of the egregious act tend to forget that it can also have a profound effect on the lives of others. These others can be passengers, other motorists on the road, or pedestrians.

Pedestrian Accidents Can Be Deadly

Unfortunately, it was a pedestrian who recently lost their life due to the negligent actions of an irresponsible driver.

The driver was on his way home following a nine-hour poker binge where his threw back a few drinks. While driving on Route 940 in Paradise Twp., he overcorrected after veering off the road only to hit a tree, a berm, and a woman jogging.

A witness to the accident told troopers the man may have looked down just before the crash, noticing he was off the right shoulder. The vehicle he drove ended up rolled onto its side and the victim ended up dead behind the vehicle.

The driver admitted to drinking three cocktails and a shot of brandy during his nine hours of poker. He only had a 20-minute drive home, leaving the casino resort around 7:30 a.m.

The man now faces a variety of charges. He is being charged with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, DUI, and a multitude of traffic violations. He is currently held in a county correctional facility in lieu of $500,000 bail.

What should have been a short and cheap taxi ride home turned into the death of an innocent woman out for a morning jog. This will greatly impact her family and loved ones both emotionally and financially, as an unexpected death is something no one is every prepared for.

The good news is that under Pennsylvania law, pedestrian-victims are entitled to damages when they have been injured due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional acts of another. Whether it be a motorist, bicyclist or another pedestrian, they will be held accountable for their wrongdoings.

If you or a loved one has been injured or even killed in a pedestrian accident then your first step should be to contact an experienced attorney. In Pittsburgh, the Law Office of Mark A. Smith will make sure you get full compensation for your injuries.

Schedule a Consultation With a Pittsburgh Personal Injury Lawyer

With a legal career over 23 years and several pedestrian accident lawsuits under his belt, Mark A. Smith is the attorney that will get you the justice you deserve. Call his office today at 412-567-1313 to setup a free consultation.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.