Woman Charged After Multi-Victim Accident in West Philadelphia

An accident on North 50th and Westminster Ave. led to the hospitalization of four people and an arrest.  The woman responsible for the two vehicle wreck in West Philadelphia was reported to have an open container of beer as well as a cup of liquor in her car.

The driver being charged allegedly slammed into a police van, injuring four people in the process.  One victim had to be pried out of the car as it was badly damaged from the impact of the collision.  The status of the injured parties was unavailable at the time of this report.

Drunk driving has reached epidemic proportions in the United States.  Despite numerous ad campaigns and increased public awareness, drivers continue to get behind the wheel after drinking.  Often, that one last drink is the difference between arriving safely home and being the cause of a horrific accident.

In 2006 39% of deadly accidents in Pennsylvania involved alcohol. 600 people died in 2006 alone at the hands of a driver who was impaired.  This is nearly two people everyday of last year.  Nationwide statistics are just as grim.  41% of fatal accidents were caused by drivers who were under the influence of alcohol.  Over 42,000 people were killed in 2006 alone.  These statistics include the most innocent of victims, children riding with or struck by drunk drivers.

Between the years of 1988 and 1996 more than 149,000 child passengers were injured in alcohol related accidents.  The numbers in more recent years shows few signs of improvement.  Of the children killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2003, 21% died in alcohol-related crashes. 

If drivers are unwilling to plan a sober evening out there are many options for them.  Designating a driver, taking a cab, or utilizing public transportation are three simple alternatives available to nearly every driver who has been drinking.  In addition, organizations concerned with drunk driving often come together to sponsor free cab rides home.  In Philadelphia many non-profit and government sponsored groups have banded together to offer free rides on Halloween night.  Party goers may use this free service from 10:00 pm Halloween night until 3:00 am on November 1^st.  Across the country this type of program is offered in an attempt to keep impaired drivers off the road.   

Getting behind the wheel after drinking is a dangerous and reckless choice to make.  One risks not only their life but the lives of everyone in their vehicle and on the road.  If you have been involved in an accident where alcohol was a factor, please call Dan Monahan at (610) 363-3888.  You deserve to be fairly represented and compensated for your losses.  

The Monahan Law Practice
300 North Pottstown Pike
Suite 210
Exton, PA 19341-2233

Phone: (610) 363-3888
Fax: (610) 363-2429