difference between civil vs criminal drunk driving casesDrunk driving is a serious crime that can lead to devastating crashes, injuries, and deaths. When drunk drivers cause accidents, they may face criminal charges for their actions. These charges are brought by public prosecutors for the purpose of holding defendants accountable for breaking the law.

Depending on the circumstances of the crash and the severity of the charges, a drunk driving defendant could face community service, fines,
or even jail or prison time if convicted.

While criminal charges play an important role in the justice system, they do nothing to compensate victims for their losses and make them whole.

That's where civil cases come in. Unlike criminal cases, which are brought by the government against victims accused of crimes, civil cases are brought by victims (or victims' families) against individuals or companies whose negligent or malicious actions resulted in physical, financial, or other damages.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit in civil court allows victims of drunk driving accidents to seek compensation for quantifiable economic losses like medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and even the loss of earning capacity if the crash-related injuries are expected to have long-term negative effects on earning potential. Victims can also pursue damages for intangible losses that are more difficult to quantify, such as physical pain and suffering, mental and emotional anguish, scarring or disfigurement, and reduced quality of life.

Let Our Experienced Georgia Attorneys Handle Your Drunk Driving Personal Injury Case

If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a tragic accident caused by a negligent drunk driver, the skilled legal team with Rechtman & Spevak can help you fight for the damages you deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation to learn about your legal rights and options, how criminal drunk driving charges and convictions can help your civil case, and how working with our accomplished attorneys can help you maximize the value of your claim.

 

Jaret A. Spevak
Connect with me
Atlanta Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation Attorney With 20+ Years Experience