Driving while under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is against the law. When drivers choose to drive after having too much to drink, they can cause serious accidents and endanger the lives of all other motorists on the road around them. In fact, in 2012, 10,322 Americans reportedly died in drunk driving accidents, including 301 in Georgia. Though a person will likely face serious criminal charges after a fatal DUI accident, they may also face a wrongful death claim in civil court. If a drunk driver kills another person, an experienced Coweta County DUI accident lawyer can help that victim’s family hold the driver accountable for their actions.
Not only do families go through the overwhelming grief and shock of suddenly losing a loved one, but they also feel a strong sense of injustice because the accident could have been completely avoidable. In addition to their emotional trauma, families may also face unexpected financial issues as well as a result of the death. A wrongful death case can help families recover for the following losses:
- Any medical expenses if they received treatment prior to death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Estimated future lost wages, benefits, and other contributions the victim would have made to the family in their life
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional trauma
- Punative damages meant to punish the DUI offender and deter them from such behavior in the future.
Contact a Coweta County personal injury attorney for a free consultation
If you have lost a loved one because someone else decided to get behind the wheel after drinking, nothing can completely ease your pain or bring back your loved one. However, a DUI accident attorney can help you find some sense of justice and some additional financial security by helping you file a wrongful death claim. If your loved has been a victim of a fatal drunk driving accident, call the dedicated lawyers at Shane Smith Law today at (980) 246-2656 for assistance.