Atlanta Drunk Driving Car Accident Lawyer
Fighting for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents Throughout Georgia
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in all 50 states. Any driver in Georgia who is intoxicated or has a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater can be arrested for drunk driving. However, despite laws prohibiting drunk driving, people still do it every day, putting themselves, their passengers, and other drivers in danger.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a drunk driving accident, you understand the devastation that arises when you realize that the crash, injury, or death could have easily been prevented. Although no amount of compensation can bring back a family member or heal your injuries, holding the other party liable for your condition can help you to obtain the financial means necessary to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the crash.
Van Sant Law, LLC is the drunk driving accident lawyer Atlanta victims and their loved ones trust for compassionate representation and strong advocacy.
Call Van Sant Law, LLC today at (800) 234-9556 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our drunk driving accident attorney in Atlanta.
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"David Van Sant has been by my side through it all."
I would like to thank everyone in Van Sant Law for answering any questions that I have in a timely manner. I can personally say, Everyone in deserves recognition for being honest, hard working, ethical, logical, dedicated people. The only reason I rated them 5 stars is because it would not let me go higher!
- Hilary -
"They were diligent, timely, and very informative during the whole process."
Van Sant Law worked on my personal injury case, and they have gone above and beyond in representing me as a client. They gave multiple updates throughout the course of the case. I would highly recommend Van Sant to friends and family, and I would choose them as my personal injury attorney if I were to have a personal injury claim. Thank you, Van Sant Law!
- Tyriq R. -
"My results have been positive & I would highly recommend Van Sant Law to family & friends."
I had a head on collusion that left me with a totaled car & very bad injuries. From the first time I spoke to David Van Sant to the end I have been totally satisfied. I worked with Patricia she was very compassionate yet professional she was always ready to answer any concerns that I might have. I am grateful that my daughter found this law firm for me.
- Karen J. -
"David and his crew worked so hard to come to a great conclusion on my case."
I was in a car accident with a tractor trailer two years ago and David Van Sant came highly recommended for someone I could talk to about the situation. Best decision I've ever made! He fought for me in ways that was truly amazing. Thank you David, Michael and everyone in the office.
- Mary -
"Van Sant is the place to go."
R. Shannon Carpenter is the guy to call! Because of him I got a far larger compensation than I ever expect and the whole process was stress free for me!
- Chase V. -
"I truly felt they were in my corner and had my best interest at heart."
Van Sant Law was just the right people to call after my car accident. They were referred to me by a friend. They were helpful and understanding of my needs and pains. From start to finish they were helpful in explaining the process with the doctors and insurance. Thank you for getting me back on feet.
- Abby C. -
"Van Sant Law took care of everything."
Back in March I was involved in a rear end collision accident. The are very professional and will do whatever it takes to get the best possible offer when it comes with the insurance. 5/5 will recommend to everyone
- Juan S. -
"Let the Van Sant team handle your case! You're in good hands."
Attorney David M. Van Sant is one of the best injury trial attorneys here in the Atlanta area. They are precise and unique in their approach. When I had my car accident, my whole world was turned upside down, but with Attorney Van Sant and his team of professionals dedication and quality of service, my life is back on track.
- Crystal
Georgia Drunk Driving Laws
Under Georgia law, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of:
- 0.08% or higher for drivers over 21 years old
- 0.04% or higher for commercial vehicle drivers
- 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21
Driving under the influence (DUI) in Georgia is a criminal offense with serious penalties including fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs. However, even if the drunk driver is facing criminal charges, you must still pursue a separate civil claim to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Why Choose Van Sant Law?
- Experience You Can Trust: We have successfully represented countless victims of drunk driving accidents throughout Georgia.
- Focused Representation: Our firm specializes in personal injury law. We know how to navigate the complexities of DUI-related injury cases.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial if it means securing justice.
- Client-Centered Approach: We treat clients like family and provide consistent updates and support throughout the legal process.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact Van Sant Law, LLC today to get started with our Atlanta drunk driving accident attorneys.
Your Questions, Answered
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I Was in an Accident Involving a Drunk Driver. What Should I Do?
After any type of injury accident, the most important thing to do immediately is contact the police to report the incident. If law enforcement has probable cause to believe that the other driver was drunk or under the influence, the perpetrator can be arrested. Calling 911 to report your accident can also ensure an ambulance is dispatched, so trained medical professionals can assess victims’ injuries and begin providing needed care.
If you’re able to do so without risk of further injury, gathering evidence at the scene of the crime can assist your drunk driving accident lawyer with your case. Taking photos of the vehicles and of your injuries (or the injuries of your passengers, if applicable) documenting the names and contact information for witnesses, recording witness’s statements, and capturing photos or videos of the accident scene itself can be useful in helping you obtain the compensation you are entitled to receive under Georgia law.
You will also need to contact your insurance company to report the accident and arrange to have your vehicle repaired. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you with understanding your legal rights and can handle communications and negotiations with the responsible party’s insurer, removing some of the stress from your shoulders so you can focus on healing from your injuries.
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Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Drunk Driving Accident Claim in Georgia?
Yes. It is completely understandable if contacting an attorney is not the first thing you want to do after receiving medical care for injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident. However, there is a danger that waiting too long to take action could result in your claim being barred by the “rule against perpetuities.” In Georgia, an accident victim or surviving family members generally have two years after the date of the accident in which to file a lawsuit against the responsible drunk driver. In some cases, though, that time frame is extended to allow for criminal prosecution of the driver. In that case, the two-year period starts after the criminal prosecution is over (up to six years after the accident.
While two years sounds like a lot of time, it is important to reach out to a drunk driving accident attorney sooner rather than later. That’s because it is easier to gather and preserve evidence closer to the date of the accident. Your attorney can help you understand the applicable time frames and filing deadlines specific to your potential claim for damages.
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Who Is the Defendant If I File a Claim for Damages After a Drunk Driving Accident?
While the driver who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident is obviously responsible, there may be other potential defendants against whom you may have a legal claim. In addition to the driver and his or her insurance company, you may also have a claim against a relative residing in the driver’s home. What’s more, you may have a legal claim against the bar, restaurant, other establishment, or individual who served alcohol to the driver, if applicable.
When a drunk driver is uninsured or underinsured, victims should also be able to recover compensation from their own insurance policies. Some victims are also able to obtain monetary compensation from the Georgia Crime Victim Compensation Fund.
Your drunk driving accident attorney will work to understand all relevant facts and circumstances to identify all parties who bear liability and hold them responsible.
