Drunk Driving Law and Punitive Damages in an Atlanta Lawsuit

A drunk driving lawsuit or any civil litigation process can be confusing, frustrating and overwhelming for those even with the most iron constitutions. That’s why you need to turn to an Atlanta car accident attorney when you’ve been the victim of another driver’s recklessness, particularly when the accident that injured you was the result of another person’s decision to drive drunk. 

Types of Damages Allowed Under Drunk Driving Law

Traditionally, when a settlement or judgment is reached after an often long and arduous civil litigation process, there are often 2 types of damages that are awarded: economic (special damages) and noneconomic (general damages).

Economic damages are those that are the result of quantifiable losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, decreased earning potential, and so forth. 

Noneconomic damages are those that are awarded for mental anguish, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and other impacts that can’t be easily or immediately quantified. 

In certain cases, however, punitive damages also can be leveled against the negligent party, although these are much rarer and are reserved for cases of gross malfeasance. Under Georgia drunk driving law, however, punitive damages can be awarded to victims. These damages are meant to punish reckless behavior and deter future recklessness. 

Contact an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney

After serious car crashes caused by drunk drivers, you and your family may be dealing with the grief of internal bleeding or other serious injury, loss of a loved one, and financial burdens. During this difficult time it’s easy to get frustrated with your situation – you didn’t deserve to suffer due to the negligence of another!

The personal injury lawyers at The Law Offices of Shane Smith are lawyers that get it; we know the frustration our clients are experiencing when dealing with insurance companies. 

Many of our clients don’t know how to hire a lawyer, so we offer 2 FREE guides, I Was Hit By a Drunk Driver: What Do I Do Next? and 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case. Our guides contain valuable information pertaining to drunk driving law, how to handle filing a claim for serious injuries or wrongful death caused by drunk driving accidents, and how a civil litigation process lawyer can benefit your lawsuit. When you’re ready to get started on your claim, contact us to set up a FREE consultation – 1-770-487-8999.