Georgia Jury Awards $1,196,226 in Head-On DWI Collision

On November 2, 2014, a head-on collision occurred at the intersection of Bolton Road NW and Marietta Boulevard in Georgia. The incident involved the plaintiff's vehicle and another vehicle operated by the defendant driver, who was reportedly driving on the wrong side of the road while intoxicated and speeding. The plaintiff filed a complaint on January 28, 2016, alleging the defendant driver violated multiple Georgia statutes related to operating a vehicle while intoxicated, driving on the wrong side of the road, and failure to maintain lanes.

The plaintiff sought damages for personal injuries, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earnings capacity, pain and suffering, physical impairment, and loss of consortium for the plaintiff and their spouse. The complaint also named a co-defendant, alleging negligent entrustment of the vehicle and liability under the family purpose doctrine. The plaintiff additionally sought attorney fees and punitive damages. The defendants responded on March 7, 2016, asserting defenses such as failure to state a claim, improper venue, contributory or comparative negligence, and failure to mitigate damages.

On June 9, 2017, the co-defendant was dismissed from the case without prejudice. The case proceeded to a jury trial against the defendant driver. On June 27, 2017, the jury found in favor of the plaintiff and determined that punitive damages were warranted. The jury awarded the plaintiff a total of $1,196,226.80 in damages, consisting of $915,000.00 in general damages, $74,296.80 for medical expenses, and $206,930.00 for future medical expenses. The jury verdict concluded the case.