Wrongful Death After a DUI Crash in Atlanta: What Families Should Know​​

DUI-related crashes are entirely preventable, yet they remain a leading cause of fatal accidents in Georgia. When negligence on the part of a drunk driver results in death, Georgia law provides families with avenues to seek justice for their loved one’s death.

A DUI-related wrongful death occurs when an individual dies as a direct result of a driver operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Georgia law recognizes that victims’ families may pursue civil claims against the responsible driver, whether or not criminal charges are filed.

Wrongful death claims are designed to hold negligent drivers accountable for the loss of life and to provide support for the surviving family members that can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and the economic void left because of the untimely death of a loved one.

Fatal crashes can occur in a variety of circumstances, but some common factors include: speeding, reckless driving, driving at night or in adverse weather conditions, and repeat DUI offenses. In many civil cases, the driver may have a history of alcohol-related offenses, which can strengthen a wrongful death claim.

Understanding the circumstances of the fatal crash is essential in establishing liability. Evidence such as police reports, toxicology results, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can be pivotal in proving that the driver’s intoxication directly caused the fatal accident.

Families considering a wrongful death claim must act carefully and promptly. A wrongful death claim in Georgia must typically be filed by a surviving spouse, child, parent, or legal representative of the deceased. The claim seeks damages for both economic losses, such as medical expenses, and non-economic losses, including the value of the life of the deceased.

Building a strong wrongful death lawsuit requires thorough documentation. Key pieces of evidence may include the accident report, toxicology and autopsy results, medical records, photographs of the scene, and witness statements. Additionally, documenting the victim’s contributions to the family, such as income, caregiving roles, and future potential, can help calculate damages accurately.

Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, may also play a role in establishing how the crash occurred and the extent of the resulting injuries or death.

Compensation in wrongful death lawsuits can vary depending on the circumstances of the crash and the impact on the surviving family members. Common types of damages include reimbursement for medical and funeral expenses, lost income and benefits, and loss of companionship or guidance.

In some drunk driving accident cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly egregious conduct, such as a repeat DUI offender or a flagrantly reckless driver with a history of impaired driving. These damages not only provide additional financial support but also serve as a deterrent to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Filing a wrongful death claim after a DUI crash is complicated and emotionally taxing. An experienced DUI lawyer or wrongful death attorney can help families manage these challenges. They handle communications with insurance companies, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, represent families in court.

A skilled attorney ensures that all aspects of the case are properly documented and that families are compensated in a way that reflects both their financial and emotional losses. They also provide guidance and support throughout a time of grief, helping families make informed decisions about the legal process.

In Georgia, wrongful death lawsuits are subject to strict statutes of limitations. Typically, families have a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the victim’s death to file a lawsuit. Acting promptly is essential not only to meet legal deadlines but also to preserve critical evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case.

At The Dixon Firm, we understand the profound impact of losing a loved one to a DUI-related wrongful death. Our team has extensive experience handling complicated wrongful death lawsuits in Atlanta and across Georgia. We provide compassionate guidance, thoroughly investigate each drunk driving accident case, and aggressively advocate for maximum compensation and legal consequences for drunk drivers who have a history of alcohol-impaired driving.

We handle the legal process so families can focus on healing and remembering their loved one. By holding negligent drivers accountable, we help prevent future DUI tragedies while ensuring families receive the justice they deserve.