Drunk Driving Car Accident Lawyers in North Georgia

Injured by a Drunk Driver? Know Your Rights under Georgia Law

Each day in this country, many innocent victims are seriously injured by those who make the reckless and selfish choice to drive drunk. Those innocent victims are entitled to recover damages for the negligence of the driver who is impaired by drugs or alcohol. Georgia law allows for the full recovery of all damages, and you can receive exemplary or punitive damages for the at-fault driver’s willful and wanton disregard for the safety of other drivers.

If you are seeking compensation in a personal injury claim, you should know that the right attorney can make all the difference. The McGarity Group is an easy choice when seeking a personal injury lawyer in Buford and throughout northern Georgia. Our attorneys have successfully handled many cases for victims and/or the families of people who were killed or severely injured as a result of impaired or drunk driving. We fight to maximize your compensation and hold the at-fault party or parties fully liable in civil court.

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What Evidence Is Needed for a Drunk Driving Accident Case?

To build a strong drunk driving accident case, several key pieces of evidence are needed. This evidence helps establish the driver’s intoxication and negligence, supporting your claim for compensation. It’s important to collect as much information as possible as soon as the accident occurs, and your lawyer will help you fill in the missing pieces to ensure you have an excellent case.

• Police Reports: Official documentation from law enforcement detailing the accident, including any observations of the driver’s intoxication, field sobriety test results, and any citations or arrests made at the scene.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test Results: Evidence showing the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can confirm intoxication at the time of the accident.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who witnessed the accident or observed the driver’s behavior before and after the crash can support claims of intoxication and negligence.
• Accident Scene Photos and Videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any injuries sustained can help reconstruct the events leading to the crash.
• Surveillance Footage: Video footage from traffic cameras, nearby businesses, or dashcams that captured the accident or the driver’s behavior before the crash.
• Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries, treatment, and prognosis, which links the accident to your physical and emotional harm.
• Expert Testimonies: Input from accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, or toxicologists who can provide insights into how the accident occurred and the extent of the driver’s intoxication.
• Prior DUI Records: Any previous DUI convictions or related offenses of the at-fault driver, which can demonstrate a pattern of reckless behavior.

You May Also Have a Dram Shop Law Claim

The drunk driver may not be the only liable party in your case. Commonly referred to as Georgia’s “dram shop law,” O.C.G.A §51-1-40 allows the victim of a drunk driving accident to sue a restaurant or bar if they knowingly served alcohol to a person who was impaired or intoxicated and the server had reason to believe the person would soon get behind the wheel. Our firm has had great success handling these types of cases. Two of our attorneys are former felony prosecutors and have experience handling felony vehicular homicide cases or other felony cases involving drugs and/or alcohol. This trial experience gives our team a valuable advantage in handling drunk driving cases and/or dram shop cases.

Let Us Fight for You — Contact Our Law Firm Today

If you or someone you know has been injured by a negligent drunk driver, don’t allow your fears and concerns to overwhelm you. Our drunk driving accident lawyers at The McGarity Group will help you successfully resolve your case and recover damages so you can resume your life. Call us today at 770-932-8477 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. We represent clients throughout Georgia.

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FAQs:  Drunk Driving Accident Claims in Georgia

If you were in a drunk driving car accident, trust our firm to provide you with the representation you need. Here are a few common questions you may have about seeking compensation for a drunk driving accident.

How long do I have to file a claim after a drunk driving accident in Buford?

In Georgia, an accident victim has two years to file a claim for their injuries in a car accident. While they may have this much time to file a claim, they should begin the process as soon as possible to earn the compensation they need when they need it.

How can a lawyer help with a drunk driving accident case in Buford?

A lawyer can significantly help with a drunk driving accident case in Buford by handling all legal aspects of the case, such as gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can also pursue punitive damages against the intoxicated driver and represent you in court if necessary. Additionally, a lawyer will navigate Georgia’s legal system, protect your rights, and help maximize your compensation while you focus on recovery.

What compensation am l entitled to if hit by a drunk or intoxicated driver?

1. Medical Expenses: Current medical bills related to your drunk driving injuries, such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, 

medications, and physical therapy. We can also seek compensation for all future medical expenses, including long-term rehabilitation and care.

2. Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you are entitled to compensation for the wages lost during your recovery period. Loss of earning capacity is also included if your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects your ability to earn a living.

3. Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain endured due to the injuries sustained in the accident, as well as emotional distress like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is included.

4. Property Damage: Compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it was damaged in the accident and personal property (e.g., electronics, clothing) that is damaged in the accident is included.

5. Punitive Damages: In cases involving a drunk or intoxicated driver, Georgia law allows for punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault driver for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. There is no cap on punitive damages in DUI cases in Georgia.

6. Loss of Consortium: If your injuries negatively impact your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and support.

7. Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed in an accident caused by a drunk driver, the surviving family members might be entitled to compensation for wrongful death. This includes funeral and burial expenses, loss of future income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

Do I have to pay for a drunk driving car accident lawyer?

Not directly or upfront. You only pay for our services with the compensation we earn for you. This means that if we cannot secure a settlement for you, you do not pay us, and if we win your personal injury claim, we collect our payment from the money we earn for you, so you pay nothing out of pocket.

How much does it cost to hire a drunk driving accident lawyer in Buford?

In Georgia, car accident lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means they receive a percentage of the settlement or court award as their fee. The standard contingency fee ranges from 33.3% to 40%, depending on the case’s complexity and whether it goes to trial. It’s important to discuss the fee arrangement with your lawyer upfront, as specific terms can vary.

When should I get an attorney for a drunk driving car accident?

You should consider hiring an attorney as soon as possible after a drunk driving accident, especially if you:

• Sustained serious injuries
• Are facing significant medical bills
• The accident was caused by someone else’s negligence
• Are dealing with disputes regarding fault or insurance claims
• Feel overwhelmed by the legal process.

An attorney can help protect your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and file all the paperwork the court needs.

How can I get the most money from a car accident?

To maximize the amount of compensation you receive, consider the following steps:

• Seek medical attention: Get treated for any injuries and keep detailed records of all medical expenses.
• Document everything: Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and injuries. Collect witness information and police reports.
• Avoid quick settlements: Don’t rush to accept the first settlement offer from insurance companies, as they often offer less than you may be entitled to.
• Hire an experienced attorney: A skilled car accident lawyer can negotiate effectively and ensure all damages are accounted for, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and future medical costs.

What is the average settlement for a car accident?

The average settlement for a drunk-driving car accident in Georgia can vary widely based on the severity of the injuries, the extent of property damage, and other factors. Minor accidents might settle for a few thousand dollars, while more severe cases involving serious injuries or fatalities can reach six or seven figures. An attorney can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing your case.

How long does a lawsuit take for a car accident?

The duration of a car accident lawsuit can vary. Simple cases may settle within a few months, while more complex cases that go to trial can take a year or more. Factors influencing the timeline include the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, the willingness of parties to settle, and court schedules. Your attorney can provide a better timeline based on the specifics of your case.

To prepare for a meeting with a car accident attorney, read these 15 Questions to Ask Your Car Accident Lawyer.

Contact Us Today to Schedule a Free Consultation

If you were involved in a drunk driving car accident in Georgia, you may receive a substantial settlement to cover your lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, and other related damages. At The McGarity Group, we are determined to deliver the maximum recovery possible and help you navigate the legal landscape ahead. To speak with an experienced accident lawyer for free, call our office in Buford at 770-932-8477 or contact us online. We serve clients in the greater Atlanta area and Georgia.