Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC is proud to announce a $2.2 million settlement secured on behalf of a client who was permanently injured by a drunk driver. Attorney Gerald Kincel led the case, holding both the driver and the bar that served them accountable under Pennsylvania's Dram Shop law. This hard-won result will provide our client with the resources they need to access long-term medical treatment, regain some independence, and rebuild what was taken from them.
What Happened
Our client was injured by a drunk driver who had recently left a local bar. The crash caused severe and permanent injuries that lowered their quality of life. Investigation revealed that the driver had been visibly intoxicated and continued to be served alcohol at the bar before getting behind the wheel. To hold the bar accountable for overserving and to ensure our client got what they needed, we brought a claim against the bar under the Pennsylvania Dram Shop law.
What Is Dram Shop Law?
Pennsylvania's Dram Shop law allows injured individuals to bring legal claims against bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons. Specifically, Section 4-493(1) of the Pennsylvania Liquor Code prohibits any licensee from "selling, furnishing or giving any liquor or malt or brewed beverages to any person visibly intoxicated."
While the law has existed in some form for decades, winning a dram shop case is never simple. Proving that a person was visibly intoxicated—and that a bar continued to serve them anyway—requires strong evidence, thorough investigation, and often expert testimony. Many bars claim they had no idea a patron was drunk, and most do not maintain detailed records of drink service. It is for this reason that dram shop claims are rarely filed and even more rarely won. But when a victory is possible, it can make a significant difference in a survivor's recovery.
Why This Settlement Matters
Drunk driving crashes are preventable. While most people understand the personal responsibility not to drive under the influence, alcohol-serving establishments have legal and moral responsibilities too. When a bar overserves an intoxicated person, they are not only breaking the law—they are putting innocent lives at risk.
The $2.2 million settlement we achieved will provide our client with the financial support they need for lifelong care, rehabilitation, and pain management. It also sends a clear message: bars and restaurants in Pennsylvania must take their responsibilities seriously, or they can and will be held accountable. Our victory stands not just for one injured individual, but for every person who deserves safer streets and more responsible businesses.
Fighting for Survivors Since 1922
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg has been standing up for the injured for more than a century. This case is a reminder that justice isn’t automatic—it takes hard work, experience, and a legal team that won’t back down from a challenge. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver or due to the negligence of a bar or restaurant, we’re here to help.
If you’ve been wronged by a drunk driver or negligent business, call (888) 498-3023 or contact us online for a free consultation.