A Pennsylvania man will soon go to trial on multiple drunk driving-related charges which stem from an October accident involving the man and his young nephew. The man has denied that he was responsible for the accident or the injuries suffered, telling police that poor road conditions caused him to crash.

According to court documents, the alleged drunk driving accident occurred in Windber, which is about 90 miles southwest of State College. The 39-year-old defendant was riding his motorcycle with his 4-year-old nephew riding on the bike's fuel tank when the vehicle crashed into a guard rail.

Both the defendant and the boy were injured in the accident, with the 4-year-old suffering broken ribs and injuries to his spleen, liver and lungs. It is not known whether either were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.

When police arrived at the scene of the accident, they reportedly administered a blood alcohol test and found that the defendant was above the legal limit. He was arrested and charged with DUI, aggravated assault while driving drunk, and child endangerment, among other charges.

The defendant has denied responsibility for the accident or the injuries he or his nephew suffered. Following the crash, he told police that leaves on the road had caused him to lose control of his motorcycle and collide with the guard rail.

Recently, the defendant decided to waive his right to a preliminary hearing. He will soon proceed to his criminal trial. He remains released on his own recognizance while he continues to recuperate from the injuries he suffered in the motorcycle crash.

Source: The Tribune-Democrat, "Windber man to face trial for motorcycle crash with nephew," David Hurst, Jan. 30, 2012