Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Columbus

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a dangerous decision that puts everyone on the road’s lives at risk. When you or a loved one are hurt in a motor vehicle collision caused by an intoxicated driver, you could pursue a legal claim for compensation.

Experienced auto crash attorney David Bence understands the gravity of drunk driving car accidents in Columbus and advocates for the rights of those who have been injured or lost a family member in such incidents.

Common Fact Patterns

Drunk driving motor vehicle accidents in Columbus tend to occur in the late afternoons and evenings, particularly on busy roads where people are returning from bars and restaurants. They can also occur on weekends or holidays when people tend to drink more and stay out later. Drivers should be on high alert during these times and always have a designated driver or alternative transportation arranged before consuming alcohol.

Possible Compensation for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents

A person involved in a drunk driving collision in Columbus could seek economic and non-economic damages to cover:

• Property damages
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Lost wages and future earning capacity

However, they may also be entitled to punitive damages designed to punish the at-fault driver for their reckless conduct. In these cases, the injured party can argue that the other driver’s decision to drink and drive was a reckless and wanton act, making them eligible for punitive damages. These damages go beyond what is generally awarded and are intended to serve as a punishment for the negligent driver’s behavior.

Legal Process in Columbus for Drunk Driving Collisions

Typically, the police handle the situation by arresting the drunk driver at the scene of the accident. This automatically involves the state of Georgia, and the district attorney’s office takes on the prosecution. The injured driver does not need to take any action, as the state automatically prosecutes the case.

Are the Injury Case and the DUI Case Separate?

Yes, they are completely separate. A private law firm, such as Bence Law Firm, LLC, handles the civil case seeking compensation for the injured party’s damages. The criminal case is pursued by the state of Georgia and the district attorney’s office, seeking punishment for the drunk driver’s actions.

How Involved Is the Injured Party in the Legal Process?

Generally, the injured person’s attorney handles most aspects of the case, including collecting evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing the injured person in court if necessary. However, the injured party will need to be involved in some parts of the process, such as giving a deposition and potentially testifying at trial. While the injured individual’s involvement may be minimal compared to their attorney, their participation is still necessary to ensure their case is properly represented.

Contact a Columbus Attorney for Legal Assistance Following Drunk Driving Car Accidents

When you suffer harm due to another person’s careless decision to drink and drive, you should not be responsible for the financial, physical, and emotional consequences that result from their actions. With the assistance of a dedicated and aggressive attorney specializing in drunk driving car accidents in Columbus, such as David Bence, you could hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions and get the payments you need to recover.

Get in touch with a knowledgeable lawyer at Bence Law Firm, LLC, today to seek justice.