What Happens If a Drunk Driver Causes Injury Or Death?

What Happens If a Drunk Driver Causes Injury Or Death?

In Georgia, driving while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense. If a drunk driver causes an injury or death, they can be held liable for the damages. An injured party can recover both economic and noneconomic damages. Generally, economic damages include lost wages and medical expenses. However, in some cases, a plaintiff may be able to recover punitive damages. These damages act as a deterrent against drunk driving and are designed to punish the defendant for a specific, intentional action.

If a person is convicted of DUI, they can be subject to penalties such as jail time, fines, community service, and a license suspension. If you are involved in an accident involving a drunk driver, you need to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced Atlanta auto accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights.

Although driving under the influence is illegal, it is still a common cause of accidents and injuries. In fact, in the United States, more than 10,000 people die annually in accidents caused by a drunk driver. These drunk drivers put everyone on the road at risk. It is therefore important to seek medical attention after an accident. It is also a good idea to take pictures of the scene of the accident.

In a drunk driving accident, the injured party may be able to recover both punitive and noneconomic damages. These damages can include emotional trauma, loss of earning capacity, and property damage. In addition, a drunk driver can be held liable for causing injuries that are permanent and disabling. In some cases, an impaired driver may be convicted of vehicular manslaughter, which is a more serious crime than DUI.

When a drunk driver injures or kills a pedestrian or other road user, the victim can pursue a wrongful death case. This is a way for the victim’s family to receive compensation for their losses. The victim’s family can also recover compensation for pain and suffering. Normally, the drunk driver’s insurance company is liable for punitive damages, and can be made to pay out a portion of these damages. Depending on the severity of the case, expert witnesses and crash reconstruction specialists may be called to testify.

One of our Top Six experienced Atlanta injury lawyers can also help you prove the full extent of your damages. If you are the victim of a drunk driver’s negligence, you can receive compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other expenses. Typically, the more serious the injury or the more serious the underlying event, the more money you can expect to receive.

If you have suffered serious personal injuries in a drunk driving accident, you need to seek immediate medical treatment. The sooner you get to medical attention, the sooner you can begin recovering. If you have a friend or family member who is willing to drive you home after the incident, you can avoid having to hire a cab or a taxi.