DUI Accident Lawyer Atlanta

Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable

Being injured by a drunk driver is devastating and preventable. When someone chooses to drive under the influence and causes an accident, they should be held fully accountable for the harm they cause. At The Wilson PC, we represent victims of DUI accidents throughout Atlanta, Savannah, Macon, Decatur, Columbus, and across Georgia, as well as in Chicago, Birmingham, and Montgomery.

Our experienced DUI accident attorneys understand the unique aspects of these cases and fight aggressively to secure maximum compensation for our clients. We also pursue punitive damages when appropriate to punish reckless conduct and deter future drunk driving.

The Serious Impact of Drunk Driving Accidents

Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased motor control. This deadly combination makes DUI accidents particularly severe and often results in catastrophic injuries or death.

Devastating Statistics

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities despite decades of awareness campaigns and stricter laws. In Georgia alone, hundreds of people die each year in alcohol-related crashes, with thousands more suffering serious injuries.

Common Injuries in DUI Accidents

Victims of drunk driving crashes often suffer severe injuries including:

Traumatic brain injuries and permanent cognitive impairment
Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
Multiple bone fractures and crush injuries
Severe burns from vehicle fires
Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
Amputations and permanent disfigurement
Severe lacerations and scarring
Post-traumatic stress disorder and psychological trauma
Wrongful death

These life-altering injuries require extensive medical treatment, long-term care, and often prevent victims from returning to work or enjoying activities they once loved.

Why DUI Accident Cases Are Different

DUI accident cases present unique legal opportunities and complexities that distinguish them from other car accident claims.

Criminal and Civil Cases

A DUI accident typically involves both criminal charges against the drunk driver and a civil personal injury claim. While the criminal case seeks to punish the offender, your civil claim focuses on compensating you for your losses. These cases proceed independently, though the criminal conviction can strengthen your civil case.

Punitive Damages

Unlike typical negligence cases, DUI accidents may warrant punitive damages designed to punish the defendant's reckless behavior and deter others from drunk driving. Georgia law allows punitive damages when there's clear and convincing evidence of willful misconduct, malice, fraud, or wantonness. Drunk driving often meets this threshold.

Higher Insurance Limits

Many insurance policies have higher coverage limits for intentional or reckless conduct. We explore all available insurance coverage to maximize your compensation.

Third-Party Liability

Beyond the drunk driver, other parties may share liability including bars or restaurants that over-served the driver (dram shop liability), social hosts who provided alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person, or employers if the driver was on company business.

Establishing Liability in DUI Accident Cases

Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to build compelling evidence of liability.

Evidence We Gather

Police reports documenting DUI arrest and charges
Blood alcohol concentration test results
Field sobriety test results
Police dash cam and body cam footage
Accident scene photographs and videos
Witness statements from the scene
Bar or restaurant receipts and surveillance footage
Cell phone records showing texting while impaired
Expert testimony on impairment effects
Prior DUI history and driving record

Proving the Full Extent of Damages

We work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners to document the complete impact of your injuries including future medical needs, lost earning capacity, and diminished quality of life.

Why The Wilson PC for Your DUI Accident Case

Aggressive Advocacy for Victims

We understand the anger and frustration victims feel after being injured by a drunk driver. We channel that into aggressive legal advocacy that holds all responsible parties accountable.

Experience with Punitive Damages

We have successfully pursued punitive damages in DUI cases, securing additional compensation that punishes reckless conduct and provides greater recovery for our clients.

Comprehensive Investigation

We investigate not just the accident itself but also where the driver consumed alcohol, whether they were over-served, and whether any other parties contributed to the tragedy.

Maximum Compensation Focus

DUI accident victims often face astronomical medical bills and permanent disabilities. We calculate the full value of your claim and fight for every dollar you deserve.

Compassionate Client Support

We understand the trauma of being victimized by a drunk driver. Our team provides compassionate support throughout the legal process while delivering aggressive representation.

The DUI Accident Claim Process

Immediate Action

Contact The Wilson PC as soon as possible after your accident. Early involvement allows us to preserve evidence and protect your rights from the beginning.

Comprehensive Investigation

We gather all available evidence including police reports, criminal case records, medical documentation, and witness statements. We also investigate whether bars, restaurants, or other parties contributed to the driver's intoxication.

Demand Presentation

After documenting your injuries and losses, we present a comprehensive demand package to the insurance company, backed by strong evidence of liability and damages.

Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate firmly for full compensation. Insurance companies know DUI cases carry serious exposure, and we leverage this in settlement discussions.

Litigation When Necessary

If fair settlement cannot be reached, we file a lawsuit and pursue your case through trial. Our experienced litigators effectively present DUI cases to juries who often award substantial verdicts including punitive damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue a drunk driver even if they're facing criminal charges?

Yes. The criminal case and civil lawsuit are separate proceedings. You can pursue a civil claim regardless of the criminal case outcome, though a criminal conviction strengthens your civil case.

What are punitive damages and can I get them?

Punitive damages punish particularly reckless behavior and deter future misconduct. DUI accidents often qualify because drunk driving demonstrates willful disregard for others' safety. Georgia caps punitive damages at $250,000 in most cases, though exceptions exist.

Can I sue the bar that served the drunk driver?

Georgia's dram shop law allows claims against establishments that serve alcohol to noticeably intoxicated persons or minors who then cause injury. We investigate whether the driver was over-served and gather evidence to support dram shop claims.

What if the drunk driver was uninsured or underinsured?

We pursue compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. We also identify other potentially liable parties like bars, social hosts, or employers.

How long do I have to file a DUI accident lawsuit in Georgia?

Georgia's statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years. However, you should contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Will the drunk driver go to jail?

Criminal penalties are decided in the criminal case and may include jail time, fines, license suspension, and probation. While satisfying to see justice served, the criminal case doesn't compensate you for your injuries—that's the purpose of your civil claim.

Take Action Against Drunk Drivers

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, you deserve justice and full compensation. Don't let insurance companies minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting less than you deserve.

Call The Wilson PC today for your free consultation: 470-280-1332 or fill out our Contact Form.

Our experienced DUI accident attorneys will fight to hold the drunk driver accountable and secure maximum compensation for your injuries. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

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