Drunk Driving Accidents

Trusted Savannah Personal Injury Firm Holding Impaired Drivers Accountable for the Devastation They’ve Caused

Drunk driving shatters lives in an instant. Those who make reckless choices behind the wheel endanger innocent people, often causing severe or fatal injuries. When someone else’s negligence leads to harm, legal action becomes necessary. Suthers & Harper, a respected Georgia law firm, fights for victims of car accidents, including cases involving impaired motorists. Recovering from a collision takes time, resources, and skilled legal guidance. Medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress can overwhelm those affected. A Georgia drunk driving accident lawyer ensures that victims have the support needed to seek justice. If an intoxicated driver caused your injuries or a fatal car accident took a loved one, Suthers & Harper can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable in Georgia

Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and reduces coordination. When drivers get behind the wheel after drinking, they put everyone at risk. Drunk driving caused more than 13,000 deaths nationwide for the second year in a row, according to a 2024 report. Georgia ranks among the worst states for these crashes, with 2,800 alcohol-related wrecks in a single year.

Victims often suffer severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones are common in high-impact crashes. Survivors may face months of rehabilitation, lost wages, and overwhelming expenses. When a reckless driver’s actions cause harm, legal action helps victims recover damages.

Georgia Laws on Drunk Driving Accidents

Georgia imposes strict penalties on intoxicated drivers, but criminal charges do not provide compensation to victims. DUI laws prohibit operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit drops to 0.04%. A violation can result in fines, jail time, and a suspended license.

The state’s DUI arrest rate stands at 167.2 per 100,000 residents. Despite these efforts, alcohol-related wrecks remain a leading cause of fatal car accidents. When a drunk driver injures someone, a Georgia drunk driving accident lawyer helps victims pursue financial recovery. Legal claims may seek damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income.

Common Injuries and Lasting Effects

Drunk driving crashes often cause catastrophic injuries. The force of impact can leave victims with long-term disabilities or permanent impairments. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries – Concussions and skull fractures can cause memory loss, cognitive impairments, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
• Spinal cord damage – Severe crashes may lead to partial or full paralysis, changing a victim’s life forever.
• Broken bones and internal injuries – The impact of a collision can cause shattered bones, punctured organs, and other life-threatening conditions.

Recovery from these injuries often requires surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, leaving victims with financial strain. A Georgia DUI accident attorney fights to secure fair compensation for those harmed by negligent drivers.

Liability in Georgia Drunk Driving Cases

Holding the right parties accountable requires a thorough investigation. The drunk driver bears primary responsibility, but other entities may share liability. Establishments that overserve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons can be held accountable under Georgia’s dram shop laws. Employers may also be liable if a company vehicle was involved. Additionally, if the drunk driver was operating a rideshare vehicle at the time of the crash, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policies may come into play. These companies often deny liability, making legal representation essential.

A drunk driving accident attorney in Georgia gathers evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and toxicology results. Surveillance footage, receipts, and expert testimony can help build a strong case. Proving negligence requires demonstrating that the driver’s intoxication directly caused the crash and resulting injuries. Whether an impaired driver was behind the wheel of a personal car or a rideshare accident involved an intoxicated rideshare operator, victims deserve justice.

Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims

Alcohol-related wrecks accounted for 32% of all traffic fatalities in 2022, up from 31% the previous year. Georgia recorded 3.5 DUI-related deaths per 100,000 residents in the last reporting year. Families who lose a loved one in these tragic accidents face devastating emotional and financial consequences.

A wrongful death claim allows surviving relatives to seek compensation for funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, legal action holds reckless drivers accountable. A Georgia impaired driving accident lawyer provides guidance and support through this difficult process.

Our Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Are Here to Support You

Suthers & Harper has the resources to take on drunk driving cases and pursue maximum compensation. The firm dedicates time and effort to each client, ensuring victims receive the legal representation they need. If a drunk driver injured you or a loved one, contact Suthers & Harper for a free consultation. You can reach our Savannah car accident lawyers by calling 800-320-2384 or through our secure online contact form.