So, you went ahead and drank too much after your group brunch with the girls or your rowdy boy’s night and then – Boom! You end up on the wrong side of a car crash. It isn’t as uncommon as one would think and you now may have a DUI on your hands, which is not something to take lightly in Atlanta, especially with its very strict laws in place. Don’t get too down in the dumps because the one good thing for you is that a DUI car accident lawyer will make this terrible time of your life a little easier and will try to get an even better outcome for you.

Is It a DUI? 

Let’s start with the basics – a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is essentially an arrestable offence where someone gets behind the wheel while inebriated or on drugs. Any impairment to the extent of being an unsafe driver counts. The typical legal BAC limit in Georgia is still at 0.08%, although in reality, even lower BAC levels can be used against the driver, as well as anyone’s physical condition, being impaired.

Accidents may escalate to DUI incidents under several circumstances, including:

Alcohol Intoxication: Engaging in reckless driving after consuming alcohol.

Drug Influence: Most people associate DUI with drinking being involved and don’t really realise that if they have taken a medication that impairs them or if they had a negative reaction to a prescribed medicine then they get behind the wheel and find themselves in an accident, that falls under the DUI umbrella.  

If your car accident is classified as a DUI, then you will have to deal with other consequences. These consequences will impact your rights as a driver, compensation as a crash victim and potential criminal charges.

Next Steps After a DUI Accident

Ensure Safety and Call for Help: Now even though nothing hurts or feels broken it’s best to ring up 911 and get some medical attention. Remember you could be in shock and also getting your injuries documented might prove useful.

Gather Evidence: Evidence like bread is always great when fresh, so start collecting it as soon as you can, Talk to some people who are there, get their information and maybe take a couple of videos and pictures. You have no idea how this might come in handy in the future.

Consult with a DUI Lawyer: As we discussed above a DUI has some not-so-great repercussions for you if you are found guilty. Thus you need to play it smart from the get-go by finding yourself a DUI accident lawyer who can help you get the best possible outcome in such a situation. 

Understand Charges: Next, work with your lawyer to understand the specific charges you are facing. Give yourself a full education regarding DUI in Georgia, including potential penalties.

Don’t Speak About Incident: As an at-fault driver, you could have incriminating information used against you. Until you have representation with you, remain silent about the accident and related DUI information.

Navigating A DUI The Right Way

Living through a DUI accident is never easy, but with the right resources and people on your side, it is possible. A DUI accident lawyer in Atlanta will help you find your path forward, as you focus on healing and moving on. The most critical thing, once again, to have on your side now is information and preparation. You don’t have to deal with this alone.

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