Personal Injury

Pennsylvania Courts have acknowledged the “sudden emergency doctrine” as a relevant defense in determining whether a driver was negligent in a car accident. See Lockhart v. List, 665 A.2d 1176 (Pa. 1995). The “sudden emergency doctrine” recognizes that a driver, who, although driving in a prudent manner, is confronted with a sudden or unexpected event which little or no time to comprehend a situation and act accordingly should not be subject to liability simply because another perhaps more prudent course was available; rather, under such circumstances, a person is only required to exhibit an honest exercise of judgment. Continue reading →

Under Pennsylvania’s Dram Shop law, a business or individual who gives alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person is legally responsible for any damage that person might cause. The name “Dram Shop” comes from England, where gin was once sold by the spoonful, or “Dram.” Pennsylvania’ s Dram Shop law applies not only to businesses that serve alcohol, like bars and restaurants, but also to private events. Continue reading →