An accident during morning rush hour traffic involving a Port Authority bus and a driver suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol has left the bus driver and several passengers injured on Friday.
According to Port Authority spokesman Jim Richie, the accident happened at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Fifth Avenue, as the driver of a sedan crossed into the oncoming lane near Cherry Way and struck the 71A Negley bus head-on.
Ritchie said that the Port Authority bus driver was taken to Allegheny General Hospital and three passengers were taken to UPMC Mercy with minor injuries.
The driver of the sedan has been identified as Peter Steberger, 41. Police took Steberger into custody at the scene of the accident under suspicion of driving under the influence. Authorities said that prescription pills were also found on Steberger.
Steberger refused medical treatment at the scene of the crash. He is currently facing charges of DUI, reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Just prior to the crash, eyewitnesses called 911 to report a vehicle driving erratically. Those who called authorities provided statement to police after the accident.
Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other substances is considered a criminal offense. Those holding standard drivers licenses should never have a BAC level of more than 0.08 percent, while the holders of commercial driver’s license, such as those given to truck drivers, should never have a BAC of over 0.04 percent – even when they are off duty.
If you are convicted of DUI charges, having that conviction on your record may result in fines, a loss of employment, loss of insurance and your license, as well as jail time and required community service hours. The unfortunate truth is that many times someone who has been arrested and charged with DUI or DWI does not realize that they are able to fight against the charges that are made against them.
At the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis, we specialize in DUI defense cases. Mr. Kellis has over 25 years of experience, so he knows DUI and DWI law. Because he has been on both sides of the courtroom, he will diligently defend his clients.
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. 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 with a team of experienced Pennsylvania DUI lawyers, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.