You may be wondering what steps to take after you’re involved in an accident involving a drunk driver. The added element of drinking and driving, arrest, criminal proceedings, and punitive damages can have an impact on your insurance claim as you navigate the realm of personal injury representation and negotiation. Hiring an experienced drunk driving accident settlement attorney in Georgia is an important first step as they can guide you and help navigate the path through claims, evidence, investigation, and settlement. In Georgia, impaired driving accidents are typically referred to as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) accidents.

If you need the help of an expert law firm specializing in assisting drunk driving accident victims, contact us 24/7 at (404) 529-9371 or email us! You don’t pay us anything unless we win.

 

What are Some Recent Drunk Driving Accident Settlements In Georgia?

According to the drunk driving accident settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Georgia drunk driving accident settlement is anywhere from $25,000 to $3,600,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case, which is why there is no accurate average settlement amount for drunk driving accidents in Florida. Whether you’re hit by a drunk driver while operating a car, truck, commercial vehicle, motorcycle or just walking down the street – ensuring you have good representation and top-quality attorneys handling your drunk driving accident settlement case is a compulsory step in the process. Proceeding without an attorney can greatly impact your settlement amount. Remember, insurance companies (even your own) are more worried about their shareholders than making sure you or your loved ones are being taken care of.

$3,600,000 – Georgia Drunk Driver Accident Settlement

Drunk Driving Accident in Georgia

Our client was struck by a drunk driver in an automobile accident. It led to Traumatic Brain Injury. Our firm secured a combined settlement for our client against both the drunk driver and the restaurant who served the intoxicated driver.

$2,250,000 – Georgia Drunk Driver Accident Settlement

Failure to Maintain Lane

A drunk driver, who was operating a company vehicle, crossed the center lane and crashed into our client, resulting in a broken hip and leg.

$25,000 – Georgia Rear Ended by Drunk Driver Settlement

Drunk Driver Required to Pay

A 42-year-old Florida man was driving past midnight and rear-ended a vehicle our client was a passenger in. Our client did not go to the emergency room. Our client was unable to seek medical care for two weeks until he met with Tony Kalka. Mr. Kalka was able to find his client medical care. Mr. Kalka personally met with the solicitor who was prosecuting the DUI. Mr. Kalka also subpoenaed the breathalyzer results, which revealed a blood alcohol content of .256. In Georgia, the legal limit for an individual’s blood alcohol content is .08. Despite the minimal injuries, the Insurance Company paid $25,000.

$225,000 – Georgia Drunk Driver Rideshare Accident Settlement

Drunk Driver Hits Rideshare in Georgia

Our client was a passenger in a rideshare car. The car was hit by a drunk driver and our client suffered a broken knee cap which had to be surgically repaired. After an initial offer of $47,500, our team was able to negotiate a final settlement of $225,000 for our client.

$100,000 – Georgia Drunk Driver Accident Settlement

Our clients were driving/riding in a vehicle in Atlanta, Georgia. The at-fault driver struck the read of our clients’ vehicle & they were cited for following too closely. The at-fault driver admitted to being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. We were able to recover $100,000 each for our 2 clients – the driver and the passenger.

Confidential Drunk Driver Accident Settlement Amount – 10X Medical Costs

Drunk Driver Accident Injury in Georgia

A driver with two prior DUI convictions rear ended our client’s car, causing property and physical damage. The Kalka Law Group argued that this driver’s flagrant disregard for the consequences of her actions showed extreme negligence and successfully won our client a settlement over 10 times their medical costs.

 

Legal Framework for Drunk Driving Accident Settlements in Georgia:

Georgia is an at-fault state, which means the liable party (drunk driver) is responsible for compensating the victim for damages. Georgia also abides by the Modified Comparative Negligence rule, meaning your compensation could possibly be reduced if you are found at least partially responsible for the accident. Fault and compensation are very much related when your drunk driving accident case comes into negotiation. In most cases, a drunk driver will be found at fault if there’s an accident – but there are exceptions to that.

In Georgia, drunk driving accident cases can involve two different types of courts: civil court and criminal court.

  • Civil court is where your case as a victim of a drunk driver’s accident will be tried if the case goes to trial.
  • Criminal court is where the state will press charges and determine the results for the drunk driver.

In civil court, punitive damages may be awarded up to $250,000 – but also in Georgia, punitive damages are designed to punish the driver, not reward victims – and most punitive damage money will go to the state. This means to recover your costs and rehabilitation – you’ll need to bring a civil case, likely in the form of an insurance claim, to recover your damages, cost of care, and rehabilitation.

 

GA Insurance Requirements & DUI Lawsuit Damage Awards

In Georgia, all vehicle owners must carry a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury and property damage coverage. In the event that the insured person is drinking and driving, and causes an accident. That limit may be hit quite quickly. In a drunk driving accident where the at-fault driver’s insurance limits are insufficient to cover all the damages, things can get complicated. Here’s a breakdown of what could happen:

1. Exhaustion of the Insurance Policy:

The insurance company will pay out the maximum amount allowed under the at-fault driver’s policy, which is typically the state’s minimum liability coverage (e.g., $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident in Georgia). However, if the damages exceed the policy limits, the injured parties will have to look for other sources of compensation.

2. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage:

If you have UIM coverage on your own car insurance policy (optional in Georgia), it can kick in to cover the difference between the at-fault driver’s available insurance and your actual damages. UIM coverage can be a lifesaver in situations like this, but be aware of your policy limits and exclusions.

3. Suing the At-Fault Drunk Driver in Georgia:

You can sue the driver directly for the remaining damages. This option can be successful if the driver has significant assets that can be used to compensate you. However, it can also be a lengthy and expensive process, and there’s no guarantee you will recover the full amount owed.

4. Other Potential Sources of Compensation:

Depending on the circumstances, there might be other avenues to pursue compensation:

  • Other Driver’s Insurance Policies: If the at-fault driver was driving someone else’s car, you might be able to claim against their insurance policy.
  • Joint and Several Liability: In some cases, other parties may be responsible for the accident, such as a bar or restaurant that overserved the driver. You could potentially sue them as well.
  • Personal Assets: If the driver has significant personal assets, such as real estate or investments, you could potentially seek to seize them to satisfy your claim.

5. Dealing with the Legal System:

Navigating the legal system after a drunk driving accident can be complex and challenging. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney to understand your rights, options, and potential outcomes. They can guide you through the process, help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

 

Steps to Take To Ensure the Best Settlement After Getting Hit by Drunk Driver in Georgia

If you’re in an accident involving a drunk driver, it’s important to have as much documentation and “proof” as possible. If you and/or another passenger are injured, being taken care of is first priority, so be sure to seek medical attention. This is also crucial for documenting your injuries and establishing a causal link to the accident.

You should also take the following steps:

  • Report the Accident: File a police report and contact your insurance company.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage. Obtain witness statements and police reports.
  • Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: They will advise you on your legal rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
  • File a Claim: Your lawyer will handle the legal paperwork and file a claim against the drunk driver’s insurance company.
  • Negotiate a Settlement: This is often the preferred option, as it avoids the uncertainties of a trial.
  • Accept or Reject the Settlement: Carefully evaluate the offer and consider all your options before accepting.

 

Factors Affecting Average Settlements When Hit by Drunk Driver in Georgia

The following factors can impact your settlement amount in a drunk driving accident settlement. Property care, documentation, and hiring a well-qualified personal injury attorney can help you maximize the settlement during negotiation.

  • Severity of Injuries: The more severe your injuries, the higher your potential settlement.
  • Pain and Suffering: You may be compensated for physical and emotional pain and suffering.
  • Loss of Income: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost wages.
  • Medical Expenses: You will be reimbursed for all past and future medical expenses related to the accident.
  • Property Damage: Your damaged vehicle or other property will be repaired or replaced.
  • Comparative Fault: If you are found partly responsible, your settlement may be reduced.

 

Don’t Face a Drunk Driver Injury Alone! Get the Hit by Drunk Driver Settlement Amount You Deserve and Contact the Experts Near You at Kalka Law Firm

Understanding your rights and navigating the complexities of a drunk driving accident settlement in Georgia can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to face it alone. The Kalka Law Group specializes in these types of cases and offers free case evaluations to help you understand your options. Our proven track record in securing substantial settlements demonstrates their deep understanding of Georgia’s DUI laws and personal injury claims and shows that The Kalka Law Group is your trusted partner in navigating the legal intricacies surrounding your accident settlement. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident, reaching out to us could be a crucial step in securing the compensation you rightfully deserve. You don’t pay us anything unless we win. Contact us 24/7 at (404) 529-9371 or email us!