While incidents of drunk driving in Georgia have decreased over the last few years, the numbers are still staggering. When drunk driving results in an accident, the results can be catastrophic for the victims. Victims can be seriously injured or even lose their lives.
When drunk driving cases are brought to a criminal court, the court will take several factors into account before sentencing the driver, such as the driver’s prior clean record as well as his or her character. These considerations may actually result in lenient charges and sentences which are nothing in comparison to the destruction caused by the drunk driver. As a result, families who have lost loved ones or persons who were injured in a drunk driving accident may feel that they did not receive the justice they deserve from the criminal system.
Civil liability in such cases can give a family or the injured individual the opportunity to pursue justice by holding a person financially accountable for his or her negligence. Even if the evidence of intoxication is not sufficient to carry the criminal burden of proof, it may still be enough to carry the civil burden of proof.
An injured person has the right to claim compensation from a negligent motorist in a civil suit for a variety of damages:
Medical expenses already incurred
- • Future medical expenses
- • Physical pain
- Mental suffering
- • Loss/Destruction of property
- • Loss of enjoyment of life
- • Permanent physical disability
- • Lost wages
Drunk driving accidents cost our society greatly, from the injuries or deaths of loved ones to the costs of paying for the accidents. Persons who engage in drunk driving should be held legally responsible for their actions. Filing a civil suit against a drunk driver can make them pay for their poor choices and help keep them off the road.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, you should seek the advice of an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney who can help you seek justice for your injuries.
Robert Webb is an Atlanta personal injury lawyer with Webb & D’Orazio, a law firm specializing in Atlanta personal injury, malpractice, criminal defense, and business law. Learn more at Webbdorazio.com.
