Operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, illegal controlled substances (drugs) or even prescription medications is illegal in Georgia and can be an aggravating circumstance in claims for highway injuries. Operating a vehicle under the influence on Georgia highways can be an act of negligence separate from speeding, failure to yield improper lane change and other violations of the rules of the road. It can also enable the injured person to recover punitive damages to punish and deter the driver.
Under Georgia law any amount of intoxicant or drug affecting the operators ability to safely operate the vehicle can support a claim for driving under the influence.
A Dram Shop claim is a method of placing responsibility for a collision involving a driver under the influence on the person or business supplying the alcohol or intoxicant to the driver. These claims require detailed professional investigation because the legal responsibilities of the person supplying the substance are governed by special rules and limitations.
