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DUI Accidents

DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta

While almost everyone knows it’s against the law to be drunk and get behind the wheel of a car, it doesn’t mean they always follow the law. Drunk driving accidents often involve serious injuries, and in many cases, even fatalities. If you or a loved one were hit by a drunk driver in Georgia, don’t mistakenly assume that the criminal case and the insurance settlement offer is enough to compensate you. We recommend contacting a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta with experience handling Atlanta DUI accidents.

Retaining a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights, ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable, and help you get the highest settlement award possible. As a victim, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. This can include compensation for your medical costs, both present and future, loss of earnings, both present and future, your pain and suffering, and for permanent injuries if applicable.

What is Considered DUI?

If the driver of the vehicle had a blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or higher after a breathalyzer test, he or she is considered a drunk driver. If the driver refuses to consent to a BAC test or does not submit urine or blood as required, it can also be treated like a DUI. In the event the intoxicated driver is a commercial driver, a BAC level of 0.04 or more is considered to be a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta.

Understanding the legal consequences of a DUI accident in Atlanta is crucial. A DUI accident in Atlanta is not merely an accident but a consequence of a conscious decision to operate a vehicle while impaired driving. The legal threshold, a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, serves as a determining factor for considering someone a drunk driver in Georgia.

Moreover, if the driver refuses to comply with a BAC test or fails to submit urine or blood as required, these actions are treated with the same seriousness as a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta. Commercial drivers, held to a higher standard, face a DUI if their BAC level is 0.04 or more.

Being aware of these criteria is essential for those involved in accident scenes caused by impaired drivers. If you find yourself in such a situation, consulting a DUI Accident Lawyer in Atlanta becomes imperative to navigate the legal options and complexities associated with drunk driver accidents in Atlanta.

Why You Need a DUI Accident Lawyer

While criminal and insurance proceedings may provide some compensation, they may not fully cover your damages. A skilled DUI accident lawyer Atlanta firm can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum settlement for your injuries. Victims are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and permanent injuries.

How DUI Accidents Differ in a Civil Lawsuit

drunk driver accident atlanta | DUI Accident Lawyer AtlantaCrashes involving a drunk driver are handled a bit differently than standard drunk driver accident Atlanta since a DUI is not really an “accident,” it’s a choice that the person made to knowingly get behind the wheel of a vehicle when they were unfit to drive. Because of the criminal elements involving a DUI, the intoxicated driver will be deemed criminally reckless, whereas they might have only been negligent if they had not been drinking.

If the intoxicated driver opts to file bankruptcy down the line, current law states they cannot discharge any court judgment related to any civil suit the victim brings. There are a variety of other civil claims that you may be able to bring as well. Dram shop liability extends to a restaurant or bar that over-served someone noticeably intoxicated or gave alcohol to a minor. Social host liability extends to individuals or employers who served to underage drivers or to a noticeably intoxicated person who leaves and gets behind the wheel.

Punitive Damages in a Georgia DUI Accident

Another major difference with DUI accidents is something called punitive damages. Punitive damages are meant to “punish” the defendant and are awarded in cases where the jury, or judge, feels the defendant’s conduct was intentionally harmful or it shows a reckless disregard for those who also share the road with him or her. Punitive damages are not guaranteed in an award, but there is the potential for it.

That is one of the many reasons you need a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta is on your side. Your attorney will work tirelessly to present a strong case on your behalf and fight for the largest award possible in order to keep the defendant from going out and injuring someone else when they make the egregious decision to get behind the wheel of their car when drinking.

Contact a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta

If you or a loved one were injured by a drunk driver, contact a DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta Shani O. Brooks P.C., as soon as possible. Call our Atlanta office at 404-920-4736 today to schedule an initial consultation. Let us help you through this difficult and emotional time, and help you get the fair compensation you deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta

What should I do if I’ve been involved in a DUI accident in Atlanta?

  • If you’ve been injured in a DUI accident, the first step is to seek medical attention. Then, contact a DUI accident lawyer in Atlanta to discuss your legal options. It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How much compensation can I receive for a DUI accident in Atlanta?

  • The amount of compensation you can receive for a DUI accident in Atlanta depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the negligence of the other party. A DUI accident lawyer can assess your case and help determine the potential compensation you may be entitled to.

Can I still pursue a civil lawsuit if the drunk driver is facing criminal charges?

  • Yes, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit for a DUI accident even if the drunk driver is facing criminal charges. The outcomes of criminal and civil cases are independent of each other, and you may be able to seek compensation through a civil lawsuit regardless of the criminal proceedings.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a DUI accident lawsuit in Atlanta?

  • In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including DUI accident cases, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s important to consult with a DUI accident lawyer Atlanta firm as soon as possible to ensure you meet all legal deadlines for filing your claim.

What sets Shani O. Brooks P.C. apart from other DUI accident lawyer Atlanta Firms?

  • At Shani O. Brooks P.C., we have over 10 years of experience handling DUI accident cases in Atlanta. We provide compassionate advocacy and personalized attention to every client, ensuring their rights are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve. Our  DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta legal team is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

How to Deal with the Aftermath of a Drunk Driver Accident in Atlanta

  • Experiencing a drunk driver accident in Atlanta can be traumatic and overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an incident, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention and then reach out to a reputable DUI accident lawyer Atlanta firm. At Shani O. Brooks P.C., we understand the complexities of these cases and are here to provide you with compassionate and effective legal representation. Our team will work diligently to ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable for their actions and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We have extensive experience handling drunk driver accident cases in Atlanta and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and seek justice on your behalf. Don’t let the negligence of a drunk driver derail your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta firm and learn how we can help you navigate the legal process and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Injured in an Accident? We Can Help.

Put your case in the hands of our firm by filling out the form below or calling us at 404-920-4736.

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