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Pennsylvania Motorcyclist Killed By Suspected Drunk Driver

On April 26, a 24-year-old Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania, man was killed while riding his motorcycle in Westtown Township. Police said the deadly accident occurred when the motorcyclist was traveling north on SR 202 and was hit by a white Dodge Ram coming from the opposite direction that took a left at Stanton Avenue.

The accident victim’s father, who was fighting tears during the interview, said that his son’s girlfriend had been following his son in a car. She saw accident lights and soon realized that it was her boyfriend who had been hit when she recognized his helmet. The father said the family has been overcome by grief following the motorcycle accident.

What makes matters worse for the family is that police announced that the driver of the Dodge Ram failed a series of sobriety tests at the scene of the accident and showed signs of intoxication. He was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving ans is being held in custody for a parole violation.

Court records show that the suspected drunk driver, a 49-year-old West Chester man, pleaded guilty to five previous DUIs before the fatal accident. According to the District Attorney, the suspected drunk driver would likely have been eligible to drive had he filled out the correct paperwork. The accident victim’s father said this was alarming.

When family members lose a loved one in a drunk driving accident, they may decide to pursue a wrongful death claim against the drunk driver for damages. Additionally, liability can sometimes be traced to third parties in drunk driving cases, such as the bar where the driver was drinking.

Because it is sometimes advantageous to file a civil claim against a drunk driver before the criminal case has been resolved, it’s important for families in this situation to seek the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer right away.

Source: NBC 10 Philadelphia, “Driver in Deadly Crash Had 5 Prior DUIs: D.A.,” David Chang, April 30, 2013