Driving while intoxicated is a major concern on the roads of Atlanta. While there are stringent laws discouraging drunk driving, people still engage in this behavior, leading to accidents. If you have been a victim, it is important to know that you can file a claim in order to protect your future.
However, filing a lawsuit is not always easy and that’s why it is advisable to hire an Atlanta drunk driving accident lawyer. The team at Herro Law is trained to handle these types of cases and so, you can be certain we will establish liability and seek maximum compensation.
Get started by calling (404) 433-6876 today for a free consultation with a auto accident lawyer in Atlanta!
What Are the BAC Limits in Georgia?
As with every other jurisdiction, Georgia has specific BAC (blood alcohol concentration) limits. These include:
- A BAC limit of .08% for adult drivers
- A BAC limit of .02% for drivers under the age of 21
- A BAC limit of .04% for commercial drivers
A driver’s blood alcohol concentration can be determined through a breath analyzer or blood test and refusal can result in license suspension. A lawyer can help you understand how the BAC results can be used as evidence in your DUI accident lawsuit.
What Should You Do Following a Drunk Driving Accident?
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a drunk motorist, it is important to do the following:
Call 911
Contact the authorities immediately and notify them about the accident. They will take control over traffic, and record any useful information regarding the accident. Keep in mind that a police report may be for a successful claim.
Check on the Other Parties
Do not leave the scene before you check on everyone else involved in the incident. If possible, provide first aid if necessary.
Seek Medical Attention
Whether you have sustained minimal or severe injuries, it is imperative that visit a doctor for a checkup and treatment. Some injuries like whiplash and other internal injuries are not immediately apparent and can take a toll on your well-being after a few days or weeks.
You need to seek medical attention as soon as possible and have a report to help you seek maximum compensation.
Talk to Witnesses
If anyone saw the accident, ensure you speak to them for a statement and contact information. They may help down the line when you file a lawsuit.
Record the Accident Scene
You will want to have evidence for your case and the best way to do this is by taking photos and videos. Record the scene by capturing damaged property, incidents, vehicle license plate number, road conditions, weather conditions, etc.
Exchange Information
Do not leave the scene without exchanging important information with the other party. This includes full name, contact details, insurance details, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number.
Don’t Admit Fault
Don’t take any responsibility for the incident when speaking to any party. Things like apologizing can ruin your personal injury claim.
Call a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer!
Next, contact an Atlanta lawyer with experience in drunk driving accident claims. This is especially the case if you’ve experienced severe injuries. The seasoned lawyers at Herro Law will help you secure the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can You Recover From a Drunk Driving Accident?
If you have been hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta or surrounding areas, you may be eligible for three types of damages.
Economic Damages
These are the losses related to assets and money and include medical expenses, lost income, lost earning ability, and damage to property. Determining the value of these losses is straightforward.
Non-Economic Damages
These losses are equally important. However, they are harder to quantify as they are subjective in nature. Examples include pain, suffering, disfigurement, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in life, etc.
Punitive Damages
These are damages that can be awarded in cases of extreme negligence. Georgia law normally limits punitive damages to $250,000. But the jury can award punitive damages over this amount in drunk driving accident cases.
How Can an Atlanta Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help?
When involved in a drunk driving accident in Atlanta, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced lawyer. Our legal team knows all the laws in this field and what it takes to have a valid case. We help in the following aspects.
Case Preparation/ Filing a Lawsuit
The lawyer handling your case will gather evidence to support your case and handle all the requirements for filing the claim. This is to push the liable party to pay the compensation you’re owed.
Settlement Negotiation
Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and lawyers that will work hard to protect their interests. Our lawyers, however, know all their tactics and will use their negotiation skills to seek a fair settlement. They will not settle for an offer that is less than you deserve.
Trial Preparation & Representation
Sometimes, the insurance may decline the amount you’re asking for and fail to come to an agreement. If that’s the case, your lawyer will go ahead and prepare a solid case and represent you in court. They will use their resources and skills to ensure you get maximum compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Georgia, all personal injury claims including drunk driving accident cases have a deadline of 2 years. After this period, you will not have the legal grounds to seek compensation. That’s why it is advisable to consult a lawyer as early as possible. This way you will not miss any important deadlines.
Hire a Trustworthy Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Atlanta!
Accidents involving drunk drivers can have devastating results. You may have to deal with severe injuries, a damaged vehicle, and other losses that seriously affect your life. With the help of the right lawyer in Atlanta, however, you can seek justice and get the compensation you deserve.
Call The Herro Law Firm at (404) 433-6876 to learn more about your legal options today! You can reach us anytime 24/7 to set up a free initial consultation.
