Five Fatalities in College Park Crash

Atlanta Public Safety Headquarters

Atlanta, Ga. - According to the Georgia State Patrol, there was a deadly accident that occurred last week on Roosevelt Highway. Right now, the investigations are still under way, but police have stated that they do not believe that alcohol is a factor.

The accident occurred on Roosevelt Highway when a vehicle was waiting to make a lefthand turn. Another vehicle was approaching the intersection as the first vehicle attempted to make the turn. The second vehicle clipped the back of the first which led to both vehicles hitting a freight liner truck as well as a another car.

All five passengers of the first vehicle were found dead at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital.

Even though alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this accident, it is something that is investigated in practically every collision. As an Atlanta DUI Lawyer, I will outline how accidents are closely related to charges for DUI in Atlanta.

DUI and Accidents

If a driver is involved in a car accident, the accident itself can be used to support a DUI charge by showing that the driver was less safe to drive depending on the circumstances of the accident. A car accident may also frustrate a favorable negotiation with the prosecution. 

Penalties likely to be more severe when a car accident is involved even when no person or property was injured or damaged. Also the accident itself can be used as an indication of less safe driving, which is an element of the DUI offense itself.

If an officer sees a driver in distress, the officer has legal cause to approach the vehicle and investigate and offer assistance.  The officer's primary duty is to aid all distressed drivers.  However while aiding those drivers, the officer can also investigate the cause of the accident and a possible DUI offense.  Also, the officer can charge the driver with anything he sees in plain view, such as drugs or weapons in the vehicle.

Practice Note

Call an Atlanta DUI Attorney today if you are facing serious traffic charges in the City of Atlanta. We can help you now.