Drunk driving accidents in Griffin are some of the deadliest because an intoxicated driver’s actions are unpredictable. Putting others’ lives in danger while driving under the influence is extremely negligent, and the victims should not have to pay for the consequences. If you were injured (or a loved one was killed) in a drunk driving accident, a Griffin drunk driving accident lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys can provide the support and legal expertise you need to build a strong case. We have seen how much devastation a drunk driving accident can bring to victims and their families. We are dedicated to getting you the fullest financial recovery possible for what was lost.
Contact us today and we’ll give you a FREE consultation to discuss the accident and your options. There is no risk to contact us or work with us, as we don’t take a fee unless we win you money. Call (404) 341-6555 or contact us online now to get started with your FREE consultation.
The Meaning of “Drunk Driving” in Griffin, GA
In Georgia, a driver is considered under the influence if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over 0.08. There are two exceptions to this:
- If the driver is under the age of 21, the BAC limit is 02.
- If the driver is operating a commercial vehicle, their BAC limit is04.
Depending on the driver’s weight, age, and gender, they could reach the 0.08 limit in as few as two to three drinks—or even less if the drinks are large. In truth, the only actually safe BAC is 0.00.
An officer does not need to actually test a driver’s blood or breath to suspect them of drunk driving. Officers know how to tell if someone is acting intoxicated, and that can sometimes be enough to support your case.
Drunk Driving Is Not Always About Alcohol
A driver can be intoxicated for reasons other than alcohol. They can still be considered as “driving under the influence” by taking:
- Prescription medications that are not safe for driving
- Certain over-the-counter drugs that cause drowsiness or other states unsafe for driving
- Illegal drugs
- A mixture of prescription drugs and alcohol
In Griffin, every driver has a legal duty to operate their vehicle safely and not harm others. Driving under the influence of anything that impairs their ability to drive safely is a risk to other drivers. If an accident results and you are injured, the other driver is probably negligent and responsible for your damages.
How to Bring a Drunk Driving Accident Case in Griffin
If you were injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you have the right to file a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Filing an insurance claim is the first step in bringing a drunk driving accident case. However, before filing, you will need to compile evidence of the driver’s fault, the accident itself, and your damages.
Common Drunk Driving Accident Damages
Since Georgia is a fault state, the at-fault driver is responsible for damages that result from their negligence. Common damages in drunk driving accident claims include:
- Medical costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, tests, surgeries, and ongoing treatment like physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages from missed work time
- Loss of future earnings or earning capacity
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Pain and suffering
After your accident, keep track of all costs and losses you experience, such as your medical bills, any receipts from car repairs, and doctor notes. If you can, at the scene, take pictures of your injuries, vehicle damages, and the whole scene. Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
Your drunk driving accident lawyer can help you gather the right evidence to support your claim. They will also communicate and negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company so you don’t have to deal with their often-questionable tactics.
Punitive Damages in a Drunk Driving Accident
Besides the above damages, a drunk driving case may also bring the possibility of punitive damages. Punitive damages have one main purpose: to punish the wrongdoer. Most personal injury cases are not eligible for punitive damages, but drunk driving is extremely serious and a crime in itself.
According to Georgia Code § 40-6-391, a person should not drive or be in control of any moving vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or another substance to the extent that it makes them less safe to drive. Violation of this law means the driver intentionally made a choice that puts others on the road in danger.
If the driver’s actions were extremely dangerous, such as them having a very high BAC or trying to flee the scene after the accident, you are more likely to have the chance to pursue punitive damages. There will need to be evidence that they exercised recklessness, gross negligence, or wanton or willful disregard for others’ safety. A Griffin drunk driving accident lawyer can help determine whether or not punitive damages are an option and how to best prove them.
You Have Two Years to File—Don’t Wait!
The physical and emotional aftermath of a drunk driving accident is no joke. You are probably in a lot of pain and worried about the future, especially if your medical bills and other costs are increasing quickly. However, the sooner you can begin your case, the better it will be for your situation.
In Griffin, you typically have two years from the date of your accident to file your personal injury claim. In legal time, this is not very long. Cases take time, and you will want to make sure you have sufficient space to build a strong claim.
Thankfully, you do not have to handle your case alone. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Griffin can take on your case for you and keep up with deadlines, so you can focus instead of treatment and healing from the accident.
Get a Free Consultation with a Griffin Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today
Being hit by a drunk driver impacts your entire life. You should not have to pay for someone else’s very poor life decisions. Our drunk driving accident lawyers can help you seek the compensation you need and deserve to move forward.
Contact us today and we’ll give you a FREE consultation and case evaluation to speak with the best lawyer for your case. Call (404) 341-6555 or contact us online now to get started with your FREE consultation.
