It's been over two years since a car accident that killed 3 people on U.S. Highway 78. The man who caused the crash has now been sentenced to five years in prison for vehicular homicide and other charges that lead to the wrongful death of three Georgia Power employees. The employees were in a commuter van in October 2009, when the man's car crashed into the van, killing the three people and leaving 6 others injured.

The man will also lose his license for five years during his probation. Even though the man has faced a criminal trial for his actions, he could still be liable in civil court for damages. Although a lawsuit will never bring back a loved one, the families of those killed in a car accident could seek damages.

Families can sometimes file a wrongful death lawsuit against a person who negligently or intentionally causes the death of a loved one. This lawsuit could seek compensation to pay for funeral costs, loss of future income, and pain and suffering. Those who were injured in the accident might also be entitled to damages for pain and suffering as well as hospital bills and future medical expenses.

Insurance companies will sometimes try to settle with victims in a car accident to prevent a lawsuit. If someone is injured in a car accident or loses a loved one to a wrongful death in Georgia, they might be wise to speak with a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney can help ensure the victim's rights are preserved.

Source: CBS Atlanta, "Driver sentenced in 2009 U.S. 78 fatal van crash," Jennifer Banks, Feb. 2, 2012