Collisions between motor vehicles and Amish horse-drawn buggies continue to pose serious dangers on Pennsylvania’s rural roads. A crash on December 2, 2025, in Centre County left two people injured and sent an Ohio man to jail on felony DUI and assault charges after authorities say he drove under the influence and struck an occupied buggy.
What Happened
According to WJAC News, the crash occurred around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday on North Eagle Valley Road near Beach Street in Liberty Township. State police say 46-year-old Jose Esteban Ortiz, of Akron, Ohio, was driving under the influence when his vehicle collided with an Amish buggy traveling along the roadway.
The impact threw the buggy’s operator and passenger from the carriage, both of whom suffered suspected head injuries. They were transported to UPMC Williamsport for treatment. The horse pulling the buggy reportedly ran off after the crash but was later located.
Investigators said Ortiz appeared visibly intoxicated at the scene and refused to provide identification. Troopers reported that he failed multiple field sobriety tests and became combative while being transported for medical evaluation and a blood draw.
Ortiz was arrested and charged with two counts of felony aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, as well as reckless driving and resisting arrest. He remains in custody at the Centre County Prison on $25,000 bail.
Can the Driver Be Held Liable?
Under Pennsylvania law, operating a vehicle under the influence that results in serious injury constitutes aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, a felony offense. Beyond the criminal charges, Ortiz could also face civil claims for damages resulting from his actions, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering for the victims.
Drivers in rural Pennsylvania have a duty to share the road safely with horse-drawn buggies, which remain common in Amish communities. When impairment, distraction, or reckless driving leads to a collision, those responsible can be held accountable in both criminal and civil court.
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The Vulnerability of Horse-and-Buggy Travelers
Amish buggies offer little protection during a crash. Without seat belts, airbags, or reinforced frames, occupants are completely exposed to the impact of a car or truck. Even at moderate speeds, these collisions can result in catastrophic injuries to riders and severe harm to the horses pulling the buggies.
Why Buggy Collisions Are Complex
Crashes involving horse-drawn vehicles often involve multiple layers of investigation, including criminal proceedings against the at-fault driver and civil claims against the victims. Establishing liability may require reviewing police reports, blood-alcohol results, and witness statements. Insurance coverage can also complicate matters, particularly when the at-fault driver faces both criminal penalties and financial claims for damages.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Drunk driving crashes involving Amish buggies are among the most devastating types of roadway accidents. For victims and their families, pursuing justice and fair compensation requires an understanding of the intersection between criminal and civil law.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock or buggy-related crash, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
