What Is Driving Under the Influence (DUI)?
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is when a person operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): “Every day, almost 30 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes… that’s one person every 50 minutes.” Due to the dangers and potential fatality it poses to both the driver and others on the road, it is considered a serious offense. DUI laws vary by jurisdiction but generally involve legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or impairment by drugs.
While policies vary by state, penalties can include fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory substance abuse education or treatment programs, and sometimes imprisonment. Repeat offenders often face more stringent punishments, with the goal of deterring individuals from driving while impaired. Some states have strict “zero tolerance” policies for underage drivers, while others may impose harsher penalties for high BAC levels or multiple offenses.
While critics argue that overly harsh penalties may disproportionately affect certain demographics or discourage individuals from seeking help, the benefits of stringent DUI enforcement include safer roadways and decreased instances of impaired driving-related accidents.
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Philadelphia Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer
When drivers behave recklessly, their negligence can lead to severe and sometimes fatal outcomes, but Munley Law’s Philadelphia reckless driving accident lawyers are here to hold them accountable. For almost seven decades, our attorneys have defended injured Philadelphians, negotiating with insurance companies for fair settlements and arguing their cases in court when necessary.
As a result, we’ve obtained victories such as a $1 million jury verdict for the family of a retired firefighter who was killed by an intoxicated truck driver who was driving recklessly. Our lawyers’ relentless pursuit of truth and justice has garnered us five-star Google Reviews and accolades from Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, Irish Legal 100, Lawdragon, and other respected organizations.
For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact our Philadelphia car accident lawyers today.
What is Considered Reckless Driving in Pennsylvania?
Under Title 75 Pa. C.S.A. […]
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Lancaster County, PA – Vehicle Crashes into Horse and Buggy
LANCASTER COUNTY, PA (March 12, 2025) —— A driver collided with a horse-drawn buggy on Sunday, March 10.
According to local media, Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department officers were dispatched to West Orange Street and Pfautz Avenue in Warwick Township around 6:45 p.m.
Police found a buggy flipped on its side, after being struck from behind by a 2012 Subaru WRX. The horse was not injured.
The driver of the Subaru was arrested for suspicion of DUI and taken into custody. He was reportedly speeding while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, according to a preliminary investigation conducted by local police. He sustained minor injuries that were treated on the scene.
The buggy was occupied by a man and a woman. Police transported the woman to the hospital for care. She was later discharged.
Both the buggy and car were towed from the scene. […]
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Lackawanna County, PA – Man Died after Car Accident in Roaring Brook Twp.
LACKAWANNA COUNTY, PA (February 16, 2025) – One man died following a car accident in Roaring Brook Township on February 15.
According to news reports, the 18-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on State Route 435 in Roaring Brook Twp. shortly after 5 a.m. Authorities believe the driver had rolled over into the woods.
Other people were in the vehicle at the time of the accident and suffered injuries.
The crash is under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.
Fatal Car Accidents in Lackawanna County
Fatal car accidents in Lackawanna County tell a complex story shaped by the region’s unique geography and climate. The county’s mountainous terrain, particularly treacherous during harsh Pennsylvania winters, creates challenging conditions for drivers navigating both highways and back roads. Interstate 81, which cuts through the heart of the county, serves as a major artery for both local and interstate traffic, […]
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York Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Once the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation and the meeting spot for the Second Continental Congress, York, Pennsylvania, is now a bustling city with a population of more than 40,000. Today, residents and tourists can enjoy live music in the Market District, beautiful murals in the Royal Square District, and delicious food in the Weco District.
As a pedestrian in York, you should feel safe walking and exploring its rich history. However, pedestrians are put at risk every day in York and across Pennsylvania. In fact, York County reported six pedestrian deaths and 77 pedestrian injuries in 2021 alone.
The Munley Law York pedestrian accident attorneys understand Pennsylvania’s complex regulations governing pedestrian accidents. We also understand the life-altering impact your injuries can have on you and your family. We offer a free case evaluation where we will listen to your story, assess your case, […]
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Pottsville Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and stress about what to do next. At Munley Law, our experienced Pottsville car accident lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
With decades of combined experience in handling car accident cases in the Pottsville area, Munley Law has earned a reputation as the region’s leading personal injury law firm, providing compassionate service, expert legal guidance, and a track record of success. If a negligent or reckless driver caused you or your loved ones harm, you deserve to be compensated for your losses.
For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact our Pottsville car accident lawyer at Munley Law today.
Why You Need a Pottsville Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer

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Tamaqua Personal Injury Lawyer
If a car accident, workplace injury, truck accident, medical negligence, or other catastrophic injury has left you with medical bills and lost wages. In that case, you need a personal injury law firm with experience. The Tamaqua personal
If you or a loved one were hurt in an accident and need legal advice, contact the Munley Law firm. We take on the insurance companies to ensure you get fair compensation for your injuries. Call the Tamaqua personal injury attorneys today.
Helping People in Schuylkill County and Beyond
Getting into an accident can cause physical, emotional, and financial hardships for the victim and their family. In some cases, these injuries can lead to long periods away from work, and in some cases, […]
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Personal Injury Glossary Terms
This glossary provides a quick-access resource for looking up definitions of terms you will likely encounter while seeking compensation.
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W
A
Accident Report — A detailed official record of an incident created on-site by an authority figure such as a police officer or hospital staff member.
Act of God — An unforeseen event caused by natural forces without human involvement that couldn’t have been prevented with reasonable care, […]
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How to Determine Fault in a Williamsport Car Collision
Car collisions still happen frequently enough that questions about liability determination arise almost daily. Understanding Pennsylvania’s traffic laws as well as liability rules involved with car accidents becomes paramount to successfully proceeding with legal proceedings.
Our Williamsport car accident lawyers can provide essential support during times of distress and uncertainty following a car collision in Williamsport. Their local knowledge and legal expertise make them particularly helpful during such trying experiences.
Understanding Pennsylvania Car Accident Laws

Under a “no-fault” system, drivers must purchase personal auto insurance to cover medical expenses and out-of-pocket losses regardless of who caused an accident. […]
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Bloomsburg Uber Accident Lawyer
After an Uber accident in Bloomsburg, PA, you may have a mound of medical expenses, lost pay, and emotional turmoil. You may feel lost and overwhelmed. Fortunately, you have legal options. A Bloomsburg Uber accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and get compensation.
You have the right to claim compensation for injuries you suffered in a Uber collision or while walking or cycling. Do not let insurers exploit you. Meet with a Bloomsburg Uber accident attorney at Munley Law now for a free consultation.
Who is Responsible for an Uber Accident in Bloomsburg?

- Uber Drivers: In cases where an accident happens while an Uber driver is actively taking rides or transporting passengers, and their negligence leads to an accident, […]
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Hazleton Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in an accident with a drunk driver, reach out to an experienced Hazleton drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible. By hiring an injury lawyer after a car accident with a drunk driver, you can have someone helping you with your personal injury lawsuit while you focus on recovering. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to prove your case. Contact the Hazleton car accident lawyers at Munley Law today to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help.
Recovering Compensation for a Hazleton Drunk Driving Injury

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Pennsylvania’s new DUI law goes into effect
A new DUI law, Act 153, went into effect in Pennsylvania on December 23, 2018, introducing tougher penalties for repeat offenders.
What’s new about this law?
Under the new DUI law, individuals convicted of a third DUI with a BAC of .16 or higher, or those convicted of four (or more) DUI’s can be charged with a felony. Under the previous law, Pennsylvania was one of only a few states in which a third DUI was treated as a misdemeanor.
The new law also increases penalties for offenders who cause the death of another person while driving under the influence. Increased penalties include potential felony charges for repeat offenders, and an additional five years of prison time for someone who commits homicide by vehicle while driving without a license or with a suspended license.
Additionally, the law increases fines and jail time for driving under suspension for a prior DUI. […]
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Could Your Prescription Medicine Affect Your Driving?
Prescription Drugs and Driving Can Be a Fatal Mix
You know that alcohol and illegal drugs can impair driving ability and cause dangerous accidents. But what about your prescription medication? Many people don’t realize that even medicine that is prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed can affect your driving.
It is an issue that concerns our car accident lawyers, as well as many lawmakers. The penalty for driving under the influence of medication carries the same penalty as a DUI in certain states. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reported that drugs were present in 43% of fatally injured drivers in 2017, more frequently than alcohol was present. This applies to some legal prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as illegal drugs.
Drugged driving is more complex than driving under the influence of alcohol for several reasons. […]
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Pennsylvania’s New DUI Law Goes Into Effect
What is the new DUI law in PA?
A new DUI law goes into effect in Pennsylvania this week, placing different restrictions on first-time DUI drivers.
Under the new law, first-time offenders will have to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. Previously, ignition interlocks were only required after two or more offenses; first-time offenders would instead face a license suspension of one year.
What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device is essentially a breathalizer that will prevent a car’s engine from starting until the driver blows into a tube to indicate that they are not under the influence. If the device detects alcohol, the vehicle will not start.
Those in favor of the new law say that the ignition interlock will be more effective in preventing drunk driving accidents and deaths, […]
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Fatal Hit and Run Accidents on the Rise in Philadelphia

Nonfatal hit and run incidents have increased by 30%, while fatal hit and runs have gone up 55% compared to this time last year.
The most recent fatal hit and run in Philadelphia took the life of 18-year-old Kevin Maldonado, who was struck by a woman driving a stolen white Toyota Prius. After hitting Maldonado, the woman abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.
Incidents like this one leave many people wondering how someone can run from the scene of an accident and leave a person to die. In 2014, Pennsylvania law was amended to ensure that the minimum legal penalty for fleeing the scene of an accident would be the same as the minimum sentence for DUI, […]
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Is Uber cutting down on drunk driving?

What is Uber? Born in San Francisco and common in large cities before making its NEPA debut, Uber is a mobile app/service that allows users to connect with professional independent contract drivers hired by the company to provide a ridesharing service, similar to a taxi service. Uber is currently available in 50 countries and 250 cities.
Uber has been in the news a lot lately, particularly for questions regarding its safety. This blog and infographic from the Michigan Auto Law Blog entitle “How Safe is Uber?” does an excellent job of breaking down the safety concerns and what Uber is doing to make its service safer for both riders and drivers.
One reason we’re interested in Uber is because of its potential to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents that happen each year. […]
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Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety Rank States in Annual Report
Pennsylvania still lacking in some driver safety laws
On January 22, the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety released their 12th annual “Roadmap of State Highway Safety Laws” report. The report outlines the number of people killed and injured in motor vehicle crashes in the United States in 2013 (the latest data available), and what can be done to improve safety on our nation’s roads. Areas of focus include child passenger safety, teen drivers, impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belt and helmet laws. The report also provides a state-by-state breakdown of where safety laws are enforced, and issues “green” “yellow” and “red” ratings based on this. See how your state compares to the rest of the country when it comes to safety laws and traffic deaths. If you want clear, reader-friendly analysis or quick facts about car accidents where you live, […]
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Drunk driving kills 12-year-old boy in Old Forge, PA

Although than 600 Pennsylvania police departments, including the state police, participated in a nationwide DUI crackdown over Labor Day weekend, with DUI checkpoints and roving patrols, drunk driving that weekend caused heartbreak for many families. Locally, there was a much accident-related tragedy. WNEP TV reported that crashes killed nearly a dozen people, […]
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Pennsylvania Drunk Drivers Target of Police Crackdown
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is once again getting the message out to Americans to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” Pennsylvania State Police and law enforcement agencies across the country are joining in the latest campaign, that runs through Labor Day, in an effort to get impaired drivers off roads.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 2010 State Motor Vehicle Fatalities statistics, there were 10,228 alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities nationwide in 2010. Pennsylvania saw 433 alcohol-related highway deaths in 2010. These deaths represented 24 percent of the 1,324 fatal accidents in the state that year. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reports preliminary data shows there were 428 alcohol-related accident fatalities and approximately 11,700 alcohol-related crashes statewide in 2011.
In a ceremony in Berks County where officials unveiled a memorial for victims of DUI accidents, Trooper Ethan Brownback said, “We’re having checkpoints all over the county, […]
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Pennsylvania State Police Announce Pursuit Statistics
The Pennsylvania State Police announced Monday that the number of pursuits across the state increased in 2011. Pennsylvania police were involved in 1,453 vehicle pursuits last year, a slight increase over the 1,413 pursuits reported in 2010.
A pursuit is initiated by police “when the driver of the vehicle is resisting the apprehension by maintaining or increasing his speed or by ignoring the police officer’s audible or visual signal to stop.”
According to the press release, thirteen pursuit-related deaths were reported in 2011. Twelve of those killed were fleeing from police; one death involved an uninvolved person. No Pennsylvania police officers were killed as the result of pursuits. However, in a case we reported in February, a West Virginia policeman died in the midst of a pursuit that crossed the PA line.
Many police chases result in serious car accidents. Last year, […]
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PSP Release Car Accident Report From Easter Weekend
Pennsylvania State Police report there were 470 Pennsylvania automobile accidents during the long Easter weekend from Friday, April 6, through Sunday, April 8. Three people died and 196 were injured in the accidents.
Commissioner Frank Noonan reported the statistics Monday afternoon. He further reported that one of the persons that died in a car accident was not wearing a seat belt. In addition, 56 of the 470 crashes were alcohol-related with two of the fatalities being alcohol related.
The police were also out trying to limit accidents through enforcement events. According to the troop breakdown report, troopers charged 292 people with DUI, issued 4,723 speeding tickets, gave 529 seatbelt warnings and issued another 5,906 citations during the weekend.
In comparison to the 2011 Easter period, two people died and 196 were injured in 527 crashes investigated.
Our Pennsylvania car accident attorneys encourage all drivers to practice good defensive driving behaviors when taking to our highways. […]
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What is the new DUI law in PA?








