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What are Georgia DUI Laws?

Within the state of Georgia, it is considered a criminal offence if an individual operates an automobile under the influence of alcohol or any other controlled substance. Georgia’s DUI laws are not restricted to alcohol content only but also include an abuse of over the counter drugs, antihistamines, prescription medicines and anything that is placed inside the body that will impair the judgment of a driver.

 
 

More articles on DUI Laws in Georgia

  
 

Much of the emphasis however is placed on the blood alcohol content of drivers, as the state seek to maintain control on the number of fatalities as a result of driving while drunk. If a driver is pulled over under the suspicion of driving under the influence, they are first requested to subject themselves to a field sobriety test. This test involves a series of exercises that test your responsiveness and balance. It is then topped off with a BAC test that estimates the level of alcohol in your system. If a Georgia adult blows more than 0.8%, they are then arrested and charged with DUI. At this point, they are allowed to contact a DUI lawyer who is trained in assisting individuals resolve their DUI cases.

Georgia DUI Punishment

Georgia DUI offenders face a series of repercussions if they are found to be operating an automobile under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances. These punishments range from fines, jail time, community service and probation. Each type of punishment will be meted out based on:

  • If the offender has a history of DUI offences
  • Whether the offender was operating a commercial or private vehicle
  • If a child was an occupant of the vehicle when the offence was made
  • If any accidents occurred as a result of the drivers intoxication
  • The age of the offender

Consequences of Georgia DUIs

Once you are caught driving within the state of Georgia with a BAC level above 0.8 and 0.02% for minors, Georgia DUI offenders face an immediate suspension of their driver’s license for at least one year if the offence was their first. Repeat DUI offenders face license suspension for three tears for second offences and up to five years if it is the third.

In addition, an ignition lock may be attached to your car. This device forces you to do a BAC test before you can access your car’s ignition. To gain access, you BAC level must be below 0.02%.

Georgia DUI offenders also must attend alcohol education and treatment programs before they can regain their driver’s license. Any accident as a result of being intoxicated is treated as a felony and may result in jail time.

Georgia DUI Plea Bargain

Previously, Georgia prosecutors and judges use to allow a restricted amount of plea bargain for those individuals who show remorse for their actions. However due to a series of negative press, the practice has been halted. Therefore, Georgia DUI offenders can expect to be dealt with, with the full force of thelaw. This makes it imperative that once you get charged with a DUI within the state of Georgia, you must get a qualified and experienced DUI lawyer to handle your case.