Getting injured in a drunk driving accident can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Besides the physical consequences of getting hurt in a crash, a person can also suffer extensive emotional and financial repercussions in the aftermath of these accidents.
If you have been hit by a drunk driver, you should understand that holding the person responsible for the crash accountable is not just a good idea, it can make an incredible difference in your recovery process. You should also understand that there may be more people responsible for damages than you think.
Of course people would expect that the driver who was drunk at the time of the accident would be held accountable. However, there may be grounds to also name in a legal claim the party who served the driver alcohol.
In Georgia, there are dram shop liability laws. These laws state that if another person serves or sells alcohol to someone who is noticeably intoxicated, and knows that the person will be driving, then the serving party can be held liable if the driver then causes an accident.
Naming another party or a business in a lawsuit could be effective in increasing the chances of victims receiving maximum compensation, as an individual is more likely to have limited means and finances.
However, there are several legal challenges when it comes to making a claim for dram shop liability which can make these cases quite complicated. Thankfully, you won’t have to try and build a claim by yourself. An attorney familiar with personal injury claims including those against drunk drivers and providers of alcohol can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation from the appropriate parties.
Money cannot undo the actions of a drunk driver, but it can help victims and their families cope with the damages suffered as a result and make it a little easier to move forward.
