Auto accidents happen all the time in Georgia for different reasons. It may be due to human error, an unfortunate occurrence like a tire burst, distracted driving, driver’s negligence, drunk driving, etc. While some incidents are beyond our control, drunk driving accidents can be prevented.
If you have been the victim of a DUI crash, you should get in touch with a trusted Gwinnett drunk driving accident lawyer right away. An auto accident is painful and terrifying for anyone, and you should not have to shoulder the costs when an intoxicated driver was at fault.
If you have been injured or sustained property losses due to a drunk driver, you may be eligible for compensation. The process can be stressful, so you need an experienced Gwinnett DUI accident lawyer to help you get the full compensation you deserve.
The team at the Herro Law Firm has been in the industry for years and will be able to help you seek the compensation you deserve. Call (404) 433-6876 to schedule a free initial consultation with a Gwinnett car accident lawyer.
Drunk Driving Statistics in Georgia
According to research done by the US Drug Test Center, Georgia ranked 23rd in states with the most driving under influence arrests with about 310 arrests per 100,000 individuals.
Data collected over the years revealed that the rate of drunk driving increases during holidays such as Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Statistics show that there are generally more intoxicated motorists when more parties occur at a certain period.
What Are the BAC Limits in Gwinnett, GA?
The current legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Georgia is .08% for people aged 21 and over. Individuals running commercial vehicles to a more stringent limit of .04%. As for underage drivers, there’s a zero-tolerance law that stipulates motorists a BAC limit of .02%. Driving while intoxicated and anyone caught is charged with a criminal offense.
What Should You Do After a Drunk Driving Accident?
After a drunk driving accident, it is vital that you do the following:
Call the Police
Contact the authorities after you move your car to safety and allow them to know that you have been involved in an auto accident. Emergency services will be dispatched to your location and they will make an accident report.
Check on the Other Parties
Do not leave the scene before checking on the other people involved in the incident. If possible, help them get out of their cars and provide first aid as you wait for the EMTs.
Record the Scene
Chances are you have a smartphone. If possible, take photographs and videos of injuries and damage to vehicles. This is usually the most convincing evidence when it comes to making a claim.
Exchange Information
It is important that you exchange important information such as contacts and insurance details with the other party involved in the crash.
Don’t Admit Fault
You should never take responsibility for the incident when conversing with the party involved in the accident, witnesses, or police. Apologizing instantly means that you admit to being liable for the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you were not severely injured, it is important that you see the doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and you need a doctor’s report to prove the injuries as well as expenses incurred.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney!
It is advisable to consult a Gwinnett auto accident lawyer, particularly if you sustained severe injuries or experienced serious damage to your property. An experienced lawyer will guide you through the process of seeking fair compensation.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim?
The damages that you can seek if you are hit by an intoxicated motorist will depend on the facts of your case. However, recoverable damages are usually of 3 types:
Economic Damages
These cover financial losses incurred due to the accident. They include medical expenses, lost wages, inability to earn wages, damage to property, etc.
Non-Economic Damages
These losses are equally important but they are hard to quantify as they are subjective in nature. They include pain and suffering, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment in life, etc.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to punish the drunk driver if they are found to be grossly negligent or malicious.
How Can an Attorney Help My Claim?
If you or a loved one are a victim of a drunk driving accident in GA, you should reach out to trusted car accident lawyers at the Herro Law Firm. Our team will help you by:
Filing a Lawsuit/Case Preparation
Your lawyer will first collect the necessary evidence to prove that indeed you have a case. They step is essential as it determines whether you have a claim and the amount you deserve for compensation.
Settlement Negotiation
Insurance companies have highly skilled adjusters and lawyers who will fight hard to protect their interests. They will try to offer the lowest settlement possible, but with our team on your side, this will not be the case. We are skilled negotiators and we will fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Trial Preparation & Representation
Sometimes, resolving DUI claims through negotiation does not cut it. If the other party is not willing to compensate you the amount you deserve, our Gwinnett drunk driving accident lawyers will be ready to take the case to trial and represent you accordingly.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Georgia?
When it comes to personal injury cases, Georgia has a statute of limitations of 2 years from the date of the accident, including drunk driving accidents. If the incident led to a fatality, the 2-year period begins on the date of death.
Hire a Gwinnett Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today!
If you or a family member has sustained injuries due to the fault of an intoxicated driver, you have the right to make a claim for compensation. In order to ensure that you have a solid case and get the maximum settlement possible, let our team at The Herro Law Firm do the heavy lifting.
Call us today at (404) 433-6876 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Gwinnett, GA.
