When a driver violates the law and drives drunk, he or she will be forced into criminal proceedings. The prosecuting attorney for the state will pursue a criminal case to see to it that the driver receives a criminal punishment. Drunk drivers often have to pay a fine, have their driver’s license suspended, participate in community service, and may even serve jail time. If this isn’t the driver’s first time driving intoxicated, the driver will likely be given stiffer penalties. Additionally, if serious injuries or death occurred the punishment the drunk driver receives will be more severe.
Unfortunately, Georgia drunk driving victims have no major role in a criminal trial; it’s the state’s case against the drunk driver. However, the state does do a good job holding drunk drivers accountable for their actions, as these criminal proceedings are designed to punish drunk drivers. Even though a victim does not have a say in the criminal punishment the drunk driver receives, Peachtree City DUI victims can punish the driver further by filing a civil lawsuit.
In order to make sure drunk drivers pay for the crime they committed, victims have rights to pursue civil suits for economic justice. In a civil case, DUI victims may receive damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
By speaking with a skilled Peachtree City injury lawyer about your case, you will learn more about your rights and why it’s important to pursue a civil lawsuit following a criminal case. Contact Shane Smith Law today at (980) 246-2656 for a complimentary consultation.