If you’ve been injured by a driver under the influence, you may be entitled to compensation beyond what’s available in a typical crash case. The experienced DUI accident lawyers at Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. understand how to build strong claims against impaired drivers. Contact our Atlanta office at 770-205-8887 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Key Evidence That Can Strengthen a Drunk Driving Accident Claim in Atlanta

Accidents involving drunk drivers are among the most serious on Georgia’s roads. The mix of impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and reckless behavior often leads to life-changing injuries or even fatalities. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta, you’re likely dealing with medical bills, missed work, and emotional distress. Proving the other driver was under the influence is not always as simple as it may seem. Solid evidence is critical to holding them accountable and recovering the full amount you’re owed.

Police report from the scene

One of the most important pieces of documentation is the official accident report. When officers arrive, they assess the situation, speak with witnesses, and may conduct field sobriety tests. If they suspect the driver is intoxicated, they’ll typically note it in the report and arrest the driver if necessary.

This report will include critical details such as the time, date, and location of the crash, as well as the responding officer’s observations of the drunk driver’s behavior—such as slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, or the smell of alcohol. If any sobriety or chemical tests were done, those results may also be included or referenced.

Make sure you request a copy of the police report as soon as it becomes available. It can serve as strong foundational evidence in your case.

Results of breath or blood alcohol tests

If law enforcement tested the other driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC), those results can be extremely valuable. In Georgia, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated for most drivers. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s just 0.02%.

Test results can show whether the driver exceeded the legal limit, which can help establish negligence. In some cases, refusal to take a BAC test can also be used as evidence of impairment, especially if combined with other observations noted in the police report.

Photographs from the accident scene

Photos can tell a story that words often cannot. If you’re able to safely take pictures after the accident, do so. Get images of vehicle damage, skid marks, road signs, traffic lights, and anything else that may have contributed to the crash. Also try to photograph any visible injuries and the surrounding area, including any containers or open alcohol in the other driver’s car, if they are visible.

If you weren’t able to take photos, check to see if a passenger, bystander, or even a responding officer may have captured any. This visual evidence can be used to support claims about the seriousness of the impact and the conditions at the time of the crash.

Witness statements

Eyewitnesses can play an important role in verifying the events leading up to and following the crash. They may have seen the drunk driver swerving, running red lights, or driving aggressively before the collision. Others may have observed the driver stumbling, slurring words, or trying to discard alcohol containers after the crash.

Try to get the contact information of any witnesses at the scene. Their accounts can offer independent support for your version of events and help fill in gaps that a police report might not cover.

Surveillance or traffic camera footage

In many parts of Atlanta, public and private cameras are becoming more common. Stores, gas stations, and homes often have security systems that record road activity. Intersections and traffic lights may be equipped with city-owned cameras as well.

If the accident occurred in an area with known cameras, it may be possible to request the footage. Acting quickly is important—many systems automatically delete recordings after a short time. Your attorney may be able to issue a preservation request or subpoena to obtain this footage before it’s lost.

Video evidence can show how the crash happened and how the impaired driver was behaving both before and after the collision.

Medical records and documentation of your injuries

Linking your injuries directly to the crash is a key part of any personal injury claim. Get evaluated by a medical professional right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some symptoms don’t show up immediately, and early documentation helps avoid gaps in care.

Save all bills, treatment plans, diagnoses, and prescription details. These records show the physical toll the accident took and provide the basis for calculating damages related to medical expenses, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.

Proof of financial and emotional impact

Compensation in a drunk driving accident case often goes beyond just medical bills. You may be entitled to recover lost income if you had to miss work, as well as damages for emotional distress, permanent disability, or reduced quality of life.

Document your missed paychecks, job responsibilities you can no longer fulfill, and any changes in your daily routine. You can also keep a personal journal detailing the emotional effects of the crash. This information can help show the full impact the accident has had on your life.

Statements or admissions made by the driver

Sometimes a driver may admit fault at the scene. Phrases like “I only had a couple drinks,” “I didn’t see you,” or “I shouldn’t have driven” could indicate liability. If you or any witnesses heard the driver say something like this, write it down as soon as you can.

An attorney may also be able to access recorded statements or interviews the driver gave to law enforcement or insurers. In certain situations, these can be used to support your claim.

Why This Evidence Matters

In Georgia, proving that a driver was intoxicated helps establish negligence and may open the door to punitive damages. These are additional damages meant to punish the driver for reckless or harmful behavior. But punitive damages are only awarded in cases where there’s strong, clear evidence of dangerous conduct.

The more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be. Even if criminal charges are filed against the drunk driver, a civil personal injury claim is separate—and it’s your best chance to recover compensation for your injuries.

Getting help from an experienced attorney

Drunk driving accidents can lead to complicated legal issues, especially when insurance companies try to reduce their financial responsibility. Working with a personal injury lawyer who understands how to handle DUI-related crash cases in Georgia can make a big difference.

An attorney can help gather and preserve evidence, request important records, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if needed. They’ll work to make sure your voice is heard and your recovery is supported.

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Atlanta, time matters. Each piece of evidence—whether it’s a police report, a photo, or a witness account—helps paint a clearer picture of what happened and why the other driver should be held accountable.

Speak with a Skilled DUI Accident Attorney Today

Drunk driving collisions can leave lasting physical and emotional impacts. If a negligent driver has caused you harm, the DUI accident attorney at Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. is prepared to advocate for you. Call 770-205-8887 to schedule your free consultation and find out how we can help you hold the at-fault party accountable.