Police Chase Suspects from Downtown to North Atlanta

Atlanta Capitol Building

Atlanta, Ga. – Fulton County police are still on the search for two suspects who have been accused of several different traffic violations.

According to reports, an interstate police chase started in Downtown Atlanta and ended in Sandy Springs. Georgia State Patrol Troopers stated that they witnessed a driver driving a Dodge recklessly near Northside Drive. The GSP attempted a traffic stop, but the driver continued onto I-85 North. The chase went from I-85 to GA 400 North to the exit for Glenridge Connector. The driver then pulled over near a guardrail, and all four occupants of the vehicle jumped out. Sandy Springs police arrested two of the four suspects in a nearby neighborhood. However, as of today, the other two have yet to be apprehended.

As an Atlanta DUI Defense Lawyer, I must say that this is very similar to how most investigations for DUI in Atlanta start. Usually, an officer will pull someone over for an alleged commission of a traffic violation. From there a more in-depth investigation conducted by the officer which leads to more charges.

In today's post, I will outline the offense that the driver in the story above was first accused of committing – reckless driving.

The Law on Reckless Driving

Georgia Law defines the offense of reckless driving in O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390 as:

Any person who drives any vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property commits the offense of reckless driving.

Reckless driving is classified as a misdemeanor. This means that if a person is found guilty and convicted of reckless driving, then he or she will face a fine up to $1,000 as well as jail time up to 12 months in duration.

The language of the law is very broad. The statute states that the driving must only be in “reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property.” While many different driving behaviors can constitute the offense, there are some definite examples. These examples can include:

• Weaving through traffic
• Illegal passing
• Tailgating vehicles
• Failing to yield to the right of way
• Speeding in excessive of 25 miles over the speed limit, etc.

Now, these are just some examples. There are other behaviors that can constitute reckless driving. There are also a number of factors including how many drivers were on the road at the time, weather conditions, and time of day.

Practice Note

If you have been arrested or cited for a traffic offense in Atlanta, call our offices now. An Atlanta DUI Defense Attorney can help you with your case today. We can determine what defenses may apply and how best to move forward.