Can the Georgia Open Records Act Help My DUI Case?

Why We Wait on DUI Cases | Case Strategy Explained

Shane Smith from Shane Smith Law explains why timing matters in drunk driving injury cases.

https://youtu.be/_J0_iNelXuc

Different Approach, Better Results

Not every lawyer handles DUI cases the same way.

In these cases, we take a thorough, strategic approach because:

👉 The details matter—and they directly impact the value of your case

Why We Don’t Rush to Settle

Clients sometimes ask:

“Why not settle now and get it over with?”

Here’s the answer:

Settling too early leaves money on the table

The Missing Piece: The Criminal Case

After a DUI crash, there are two cases:

1. Criminal case (against the drunk driver)
2. Civil case (your injury claim)

Most people don’t realize:

👉 The criminal case contains critical evidence

What We Do

We:

• Track the criminal case from start to finish
• Request the full file through the Georgia Open Records Act
• Review everything for additional evidence

Why?

Because what’s in that file can increase your case value

The Big Factor: Prior DUIs

One of the most important things we look for:

👉 Has the driver done this before?

If they have:

• 2 or 3 prior DUIs
• A history of reckless behavior

Then:

You may be entitled to more punitive damages

Why That Matters

Punitive damages are meant to:

Punish bad behavior and prevent it from happening again

And:

It takes more to punish a repeat offender than a first-time mistake

Real-World Insight

From experience:

👉 Many drunk drivers are repeat offenders

When we uncover prior DUIs:

• We present that to the insurance company
• The seriousness of the case increases
• The value of the claim increases

The Trade-Off

Yes, waiting can take longer.

But:

Waiting = stronger case
Stronger case = better compensation

Final Thought

DUI cases are not just about compensation.

They are about:

• Accountability
• Protecting others
• Making sure the driver faces the full consequences

Rushing that process:

Only helps the insurance company

You can request our free Victim’s Survival Guide to Car Accidents here:

👉 https://www.shanesmithlaw.com/car-accident-victim-survival-guide/

Or visit:
👉 https://www.shanesmithlaw.com/

In pain? Call Shane.
📞 980-999-9999