A man has been sentenced to jail for his role in an accident that killed a pedestrian in 2013 while he was driving under the influence of alcohol.
Gregg R. Baratka, 38, of Brighton was sentenced by Common Pleas Judge Edward J. Borkowski of Allegheny County to a sentence between 8 and 23 months’ imprisonment with an additional four years’ probation.
According to court records, Baratka informed police that he was turning left in his pickup truck from Brighton Road onto Woods Run Avenue about 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17, 2013, when he heard his side-view mirror hit his window. Eyewitnesses to the incident informed Baratka that he had struck a pedestrian. Baratka immediately called 911 and waited for police to arrive at the scene of the accident.
The pedestrian that Baratka struck was James Lepinsky, 88, who died four days later as the result of blunt force trauma suffered when Baratka’s vehicle struck him.
At the time of the accident, a blood-alcohol test showed that Baratka’s blood alcohol level was at on was 0.09 — just slightly above the legal limit of 0.08.
Baratka pleaded guilty to the charges of homicide by vehicle, driving under the influence and other crimes in the incident.
The judge in the case, Judge Borkowski said he would consider releasing Baratka to house arrest after he had served at least six months in prison.
Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other substances is a criminal offense. Those holding standard drivers’ licenses should never have a BAC level of more than 0.08 percent. A DUI conviction can spell disaster for your career and hardship for you and your family in terms of loss of employment and income as well as time served in prison and large fines. Many drivers do not realize that it is possible to fight the charge of DUI or DWI made against them.
At the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis, we specialize in DUI defense cases. Mr. Kellis has over 20 years of experience; Mr. Kellis knows DUI and DWI law. Because he has been on both sides of the courtroom, he will diligently defend his clients. Mr. Kellis has a high rate of success and he can succeed for you. If you or a loved one has been accused of an alcohol related incident, we are here for you and we are on your side. Don’t face a DUI charge alone or leave it to chance. Get a lawyer to represent you who can make a real difference in the outcome of your case. Call today to make an appointment at our toll free number or use the contact form here on our website. We are here for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.