DUI Crash Got You Hurt? Here's How to Fight Back

Being involved in a car accident can be a life-altering experience, filled with physical pain, emotional distress, and the financial strain of medical bills and lost wages. For many, the road to recovery is challenging, and understanding the financial aspects of a settlement can feel overwhelming. At Zdrilich Injury Law, we believe that having clear, accessible information is essential to help you feel empowered and informed as you move forward. Knowing what to expect in terms of settlement amounts for different types of injuries can make all the difference as you navigate this difficult time. Car accidents are common occurrences on Georgia's busy roads, and injuries from these accidents can range from minor to life-altering. For victims, one of the most pressing questions is, "How much can I expect in a settlement?" While the answer varies depending on several factors, one of the most significant is the type of injury sustained. This guide will walk you through the average car accident settlement amounts for different injuries, what factors influence these amounts, and how a personal injury attorney like Joseph Zdrilich from Zdrilich Injury Law can help you maximize your compensation. Overview of Car Accident Settlements in Georgia In Georgia, car accident settlements aim to compensate victims for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred due to the accident. Settlements vary based on: Type and Severity of Injury : More severe injuries generally lead to higher settlements. Long-term Impact : Injuries with lasting effects, like disabilities or chronic pain, may increase settlement amounts. Liability and Negligence : If the other party was clearly at fault, settlements may be higher. Insurance Limits : The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits may impact the maximum compensation available. Understanding the settlement ranges for specific injuries can give victims a clearer idea of what they may be entitled to. Below, we cover the average settlement ranges for common car accident injuries in Georgia. Settlement Amounts for Common Car Accident Injuries a. Whiplash Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in rear-end collisions. This soft tissue injury affects the neck, causing pain, stiffness, and headaches. Although whiplash can resolve in a few weeks, it sometimes leads to chronic pain, especially if left untreated. Average Settlement Range : $2,500 to $10,000 for mild cases; severe cases with chronic pain may reach $30,000 or more. Factors Influencing Settlement : Length of recovery, impact on daily activities, and any lasting pain can significantly affect the settlement amount. b. Broken Bones Bone fractures are more serious injuries, often resulting from high-impact accidents. Treatment may involve surgery, physical therapy, and long-term recovery, especially if multiple bones are broken. Average Settlement Range : $15,000 to $100,000 depending on the bones involved, the severity of the break, and required treatment. Factors Influencing Settlement : Location and complexity of fractures, surgery requirements, and any permanent limitations in movement or function contribute to higher settlements. c. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) Traumatic brain injuries are among the most severe car accident injuries, ranging from mild concussions to debilitating injuries that impair cognitive functions. TBIs often result in extensive medical expenses, ongoing treatment, and significant lifestyle changes. Average Settlement Range : $50,000 to over $1 million, depending on injury severity, cognitive impairment, and necessary medical care. Factors Influencing Settlement : Level of cognitive and physical impairment, length of treatment, and lifelong care requirements all impact the settlement value. d. Back and Neck Injuries Back and neck injuries range from mild strains to severe spinal cord injuries that may lead to paralysis. These injuries often involve extensive medical care, physical therapy, and possible surgery. Average Settlement Range : $10,000 to over $500,000, depending on severity and long-term impact. Factors Influencing Settlement : Spinal injuries, nerve damage, and chronic pain from herniated discs can lead to larger settlements, especially when impacting mobility or quality of life. Minor vs. Severe Injuries: Comparing Settlement Ranges The difference in settlement amounts between minor and severe injuries is substantial. Here’s a closer look at how they compare: Minor Injuries : Typically include soft tissue injuries, mild whiplash, and minor fractures. Settlements generally range between $2,500 and $25,000, depending on recovery time and medical expenses. Severe Injuries : Cover cases like traumatic brain injuries, severe spinal injuries, and multiple fractures. These cases often involve extensive treatment, long-term effects, and high medical costs, leading to settlements from $50,000 to over $1 million. Understanding the severity and long-term implications of your injury is crucial, as more severe cases demand compensation that reflects the ongoing impact on your life. Factors Influencing Car Accident Settlements Several factors play a significant role in determining settlement amounts. A few key ones include: a. Severity and Type of Injury More severe injuries generally lead to higher settlements. Injuries requiring long-term or specialized care also increase compensation. Injuries with permanent consequences, such as cognitive impairment from a TBI or paralysis, tend to result in the highest settlements. b. Long-term Impact and Pain and Suffering Settlements account not only for medical costs but also for pain and suffering, which compensates victims for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. Courts may use the "multiplier method," which multiplies actual damages (medical expenses, lost wages) by a number between 1.5 and 5 based on the injury’s severity, to calculate this aspect. c. Medical Expenses and Treatment Costs Medical expenses play a significant role in settlements, as they directly correlate with the injury's severity. Costs for surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term medications all contribute to higher settlements. d. Impact on Earning Capacity If an injury impairs your ability to work or earn a living, your settlement may include lost wages and compensation for diminished earning capacity, particularly if you’re unable to return to your previous job or work fewer hours. e. Insurance Policy Limits Insurance coverage limits are crucial in determining available compensation. Georgia requires minimum liability coverage, but many victims require higher payouts than these minimums provide, especially in cases involving severe injuries. Working with an Experienced Attorney to Maximize Compensation Navigating the complexities of car accident settlements can be challenging. Factors like determining liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and accounting for all damages require legal expertise. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney like Joseph Zdrilich at Zdrilich Injury Law ensures that you have a strong advocate on your side. Benefits of Hiring Zdrilich Injury Law: Expertise in Personal Injury Law : Attorney Joseph Zdrilich brings years of experience in handling car accident cases and maximizing compensation for clients. Negotiation with Insurance Companies : Skilled negotiation ensures fair settlements, especially when insurers attempt to minimize payouts. Personalized Case Evaluation : Zdrilich Injury Law offers personalized case evaluations to accurately assess potential compensation based on injury specifics and long-term impacts. Conclusion: Know Your Rights and Get the Compensation You Deserve The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries and medical bills. Knowing what to expect in terms of settlement amounts for different types of injuries can help you make informed decisions. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Georgia, reach out to Joseph Zdrilich at Zdrilich Injury Law for a personalized case evaluation. His expertise and commitment to client advocacy can help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact Us The robust support system at Zdrilich Injury Law is exactly what you need to win rightful compensation and move forward. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule a private consultation.

One of every driver's biggest fears is a head-on collision. These accidents can be physically and emotionally devastating, resulting in years of medical bills and upheaval in one’s personal and professional life. If a semi-truck or municipal vehicle is involved, there can be lengthy legal battles over damages and liability. The legal team at Zdrilich Injury Law is uniquely adept at navigating the complex legal issues surrounding head-on collisions. Read on as we share essential facts about head-on collisions and your legal rights.  What Happens in a Head-On Collision? Two vehicles colliding front-to-front is referred to as a head-on collision. They often happen at high speeds, resulting in totaled vehicles and severe physical injuries. Understanding and presenting the mechanics of head-on accidents in a compelling way is crucial to establishing fault and securing compensation. Having an experienced injury attorney by your side is the key to success. Dangers of Head-On Collisions According to the Georgia Department of Public Health , there are 8,000-9,000 head-on collisions every year in Georgia, 190 of them fatal. What makes them so devastating is the sheer force involved upon impact. Common Causes of Head-On Collisions in Savannah - Distracted Driving - Road Conditions - Unsafe Passing - Drunk Driving - Vehicle Defects - Reckless Operation - Fatigued Driving Emotional Trauma After a Head-On Collision Can Linger In a head-on collision, both the physical and emotional after-effects can be life-changing. A victim’s daily life is, at a minimum, disrupted for months with pain, soaring medical costs, and lingering psychological trauma. Some changes are so profound that the victim’s desired life journey cannot be recovered. Seeking rightful compensation to aid recovery and move forward is the right of every head-on collision victim. Head-On Collision FAQs Q. Who is at fault in a head-on collision? A. In most cases, the driver who veered out of their lane is at fault. However, legally establishing fault can be complicated and should be handled by a seasoned accident attorney. Q. I was in a head-on crash; what should I do? A. After seeking medical attention and ensuring other crash victims do, document everything at the crash site. Collect information from witnesses without admitting fault and call your insurer. Finally, call an experienced injury lawyer near you to protect your rights. Q. What if the head-on collision was unavoidable? A. Even if the incident was unavoidable, liability may still exist. Document everything and contact a head-on crash attorney immediately. Q. Can I sue for a head-on collision after my insurance pays? A. Yes, you can pursue further legal action if your insurance payout doesn’t cover all your damages. If the other party was at fault, you may have grounds for a lawsuit to recover additional costs. Conclusion Head-on collisions are particularly traumatizing and physically damaging. Seeking compensation from an experienced car accident attorney can make all the difference to your successful recovery. Get Legal Help Now from the Expert Head-On Collision Lawyers in Savannah If you’ve been in a head-on collision, you’re probably reeling from your injuries, medical costs, and lost wages, not to mention the psychological aftermath. Zdrilich Injury Law is here to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. Head-on collision lawsuits demand in-depth knowledge of Georgia law. Our team delves into the specifics of your case, gathers compelling evidence, and stands by your side through the entire process. Our meticulous attention to detail, compassionate approach, and experience make us Savannah’s top head-on collision attorneys. Contact Us The robust support system at Zdrilich Injury Law is exactly what you need to win rightful compensation and move forward. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule a private consultation.

Highway accidents are everyone’s fear, and as traffic becomes denser in the greater Atlanta region, it is more likely. One type of accident is especially terrifying: a collision involving a truck. Many drivers cite this scenario as their worst driving fear. The team at Zdrilich Injury Law knows all too well the aftermath of truck accidents for its victims. We see them every day in our offices. As experts in trucking accident law, we share here some essential facts you need to know if you, too, are a victim. Truck Accidents are Devastating - Here's Why The power and size of a commercial truck going 60 mph can turn a simple mishap into a life-altering reality for accident victims. An 18-wheeler crashing into a passenger vehicle causes significantly more damage than another car can. The consequences are sometimes deadly and often permanent. Common Causes of Truck Accidents - Aggressive Driving - Speeding - Distracted Driving - Poor Vehicle Maintenance - DUI - Weather - Road Conditions - Fatigue According to The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration , the 3 top causes of trucking accidents are fatigue, DUI, and speeding. Your Legal Options as the Victim of a Trucking Accident in Atlanta It can be difficult to find a way forward after a truck accident leaves you with physical injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma. The truck accident claim process in Atlanta requires several steps and meticulous attention to detail when filing documents. An experienced truck accident lawyer who specializes in commercial truck accident law can explain your rights in-depth and guide you through the claim process. How to Get Compensated for Truck Accident Damages To recover physically and financially after a truck accident, you need fair compensation. To get it, you must prove negligence on behalf of the driver or the trucking company. Was the driver negligent? Did the company not maintain its fleet properly? Gathering the evidence and presenting it in a compelling way is what your legal advocate can do for you as you recover. Truck Accident Lawsuit FAQs Q. How long do I have to sue after a trucking accident? A. The statute of limitations in personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident. Exceptions are rare but do occur. Consult with your truck accident lawyer for more details. Q. Can I sue a trucking company if I'm not injured? A. Even if you weren’t injured in a trucking accident, you most likely experienced property damage and other financial losses. If so, you still have a case. Q. What damages can I claim in a truck accident? A. Medical, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress are typical damages sought after a trucking accident. Punitive damages may be sought if the defendant was extremely reckless. Q. Who can I hold responsible for a truck accident in Atlanta? A. Potentially liable parties include the driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or parts if found defective, or other drivers. Conclusion Knowing your legal rights and the steps to filing a claim are crucial for compensation after a trucking accident. Consult with a trucking accident attorney in Atlanta who can guide you through the process to recovery. Emergency Legal Help for Truck Accident Victims - Call Zdrilich Injury Law Knowing exactly what to do as a trucking accident victim isn’t always clear. That’s where the expert legal team at Zdrilich Injury Law can help. We specialize in this area, and our years of expertise can benefit you when you need it most. As compassionate and dedicated Atlanta truck accident attorneys, we focus on your rights and what you need to move forward, whether it is financial recovery or the loss of a loved one. You deserve proper and fair restitution, and we’ll help you get it. Reach Out to Us Don’t face this devastating event on your own. Contact our team today for more information about our services or to schedule a private consultation. We’ll be your advocate and make sure your voice is heard.

Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI accident can be as traumatic as the incident itself, but it doesn’t need to be. Zdrilich Injury Law provides staunch advocacy for DUI accident victims, helping them understand their rights as a DUI collision survivor, which leads to restorative compensation.  Read on as we share our extensive expertise in Georgia DUI law and how to move forward. Legal Recourse for DUI Accident Injuries If you’re struggling with medical costs, lost wages, and property damage as a DUI victim, know that you have choices. Seeking justice after being hit by a drunk driver requires exploring the legal avenues available to you. DUI accident victim compensation is offered by The Georgia Victims Compensation Program , and taking the guilty party to court is also an option. Some immediate steps to take after a DUI accident include seeking immediate medical treatment, documenting everything, and finding legal aid for DUI injury claims. Why Do Drunk Driving Accidents Lead to More Serious Injuries? Drunk drivers typically have higher-risk behaviors, slower reaction times, reduced coordination, and lack of focus. This reckless behavior sadly leads to higher-impact crashes and more severe injuries for its victims. There can be long-term physical and emotional distress, even after a DUI accident with minor injuries. Is Drunk Driving Considered a Criminal or Civil Case in Georgia? Drunk driving is indeed a criminal offense in Georgia, but this does not remove your option for a civil case. Punishment includes criminal penalties for offenders, while civil suits are about securing compensation. What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive? Compensation should cover medical bills, lost work, and even punitive damages, which are especially meaningful if multiple at-fault drivers were involved in the accident. If the offender was uninsured at the time of the accident or benefitted from sovereign immunity, you need a legal expert to navigate your options successfully. How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit? Suing for compensation as a DUI accident victim should happen as quickly as possible, as there are stringent rules regarding deadlines. Prompt legal consultation is recommended to get the ball rolling within the two-year statute of limitations. Georgia DUI Accident Claims FAQ Q. What is the most common age for drunk driving accidents? A. According to the CDC , 52% of alcohol-related crashes leading to fatalities were caused by drivers aged 21-34 in 2020. Q. What is the punishment for drunk driving in Georgia? A. First-time offenders can face fines, jail time, community service requirements, and a suspended license. Repeated offenses often result in longer jail sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory rehabilitation programs. Q. Can you sue a bar that serves a drunk driver in Georgia? A. Under certain conditions, this is allowed. For example, if the drunk driver was clearly intoxicated when served. This is known as the dram shop liability claim. Conclusion Asserting your legal rights after a DUI accident requires timely action on your part. Meet with an experienced injury attorney to learn your rights and options to seek the compensation you deserve. Get Help from the Legal Experts at Zdrilich Injury Law If you’ve had your life turned upside down after a DUI crash through no fault of your own, we’re here for you. With decades of expertise, the team at Zdrilich Injury Law can explain your financial recovery options as a DUI accident victim. Because every case is unique, we listen, plan, and fight for your rights as a victim. We design tailor-made strategies to win maximum compensation on your behalf. We demystify the process and keep you informed every step of the way so you can concentrate on recovery. With us by your side, a brighter future is within reach. Contact Us Don’t let uncertainty keep you from exercising your legal rights. Contact our compassionate team today for more information or to schedule a private consultation.