Atlanta Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
Dedicated Representation for Drunk Driving Accident Victims in Atlanta, GA
Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating and preventable incidents on Atlanta’s roadways. The impact of a DUI crash can leave victims with life-altering injuries, immense emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. Our experienced Atlanta drunk driving accident lawyers are committed to securing justice for victims and holding intoxicated drivers accountable for their reckless actions.
At Cunningham Bounds, our dedicated team of legal professionals has a proven track record of securing justice and compensation for victims of drunk driving accidents throughout the state of Georgia. With our unwavering commitment to advocating for your rights, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Call (404) 609-1081 or contact us online today to request a free case review with our Atlanta drunk driving accident lawyers.
Understanding Drunk Driving Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for most drivers. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, the state enforces a zero-tolerance policy. Being impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription medication can result in DUI charges.
Under Georgia law, driving under the influence is not just a criminal offense—it is also considered negligence. When a drunk driver causes a crash, victims can pursue a personal injury claim for the damages they suffer, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In especially egregious cases, victims may also pursue punitive damages, designed to punish the drunk driver and deter similar conduct.
How to Prove a Drunk Driving Accident Claim in Georgia
Securing compensation after a drunk driving accident requires proving that the other driver’s impairment directly caused the collision. Georgia law demands that certain elements be established to build a strong legal case, which may include:
- Duty of Care: Establish that the drunk driver owed a duty of care to other road users, which is a legal obligation to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly.
- Breach of Duty: Show that the drunk driver breached their duty of care by operating a vehicle while impaired. In Georgia, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% for most drivers and lower for commercial drivers or those under the legal drinking age.
- Causation: Demonstrate that the driver's impairment was a direct cause of the accident. You must establish a connection between the driver's intoxicated state and the collision.
- Damages: Prove that you suffered damages as a result of the accident. These damages can include medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other losses related to the accident.
In Georgia, if the drunk driver was arrested and convicted of DUI in connection with the accident, it can serve as evidence of negligence per se. This means that if the driver was found guilty of DUI, it can be presumed that they breached their duty of care.
To build a strong case against a drunk driver in Georgia, you should gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and any evidence of the driver's impairment, such as field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results. Our attorneys have years of experience gathering the evidence needed to substantiate your claim. From police reports and eyewitness testimonies to accident reconstructions and medical records, we will work meticulously to build a case that holds up in court.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable
Accountability is at the heart of any drunk driving case. Courts in Georgia take DUIs very seriously, and state laws offer additional avenues to hold not only drivers but also third parties responsible:
- Dram Shop Liability
Establishments like bars or restaurants that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or minors may also bear legal responsibility for a resulting accident. - Social Host Liability
If a private party host knowingly provides alcohol to someone under 21 who then causes a DUI crash, they can also be held accountable.
Our Atlanta lawyers understand these nuances and are equipped to identify all liable parties to strengthen your claim and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why It’s Critical to Contact an Attorney Quickly
The window to take legal action is limited. Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the accident date. Delaying legal action could weaken your case by allowing valuable evidence to fade or witnesses to become unavailable.
By engaging Cunningham Bounds early, our team can quickly begin investigating your case, preserving evidence, and building the strongest possible argument on your behalf.
Why Choose Cunningham Bounds?
We understand the heavy toll a drunk driving accident takes on victims. At Cunningham Bounds, we don’t just offer legal representation—we provide unwavering support to our clients during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
Here’s how we set ourselves apart:
- Understanding Georgia Laws: Our attorneys have an in-depth knowledge of Georgia's laws related to drunk driving accidents, including the state's liability and insurance regulations.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We have the resources and experience to investigate your accident thoroughly. This includes gathering police reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. Our legal team is skilled in negotiating with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Fighting for Maximum Compensation: Our primary goal is to secure the maximum compensation available to you. We will explore all avenues for recovery, including pursuing punitive damages if the drunk driver's actions were particularly egregious.
- Litigation Experience: While we strive to negotiate fair settlements, we are fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our experienced trial attorneys have a proven track record of success in the courtroom.
When you hire Cunningham Bounds, you’re choosing a team that genuinely cares about your case. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
Call (404) 609-1081 or contact us online now for your free consultation.
