Georgia DUI Roadblocks

As Georgia law enforcements continue to use roadblocks to catch drunk drivers, more and more drivers find themselves facing criminal driving under the influence (DUI) charges after their vehicle is stopped during one of these checkpoints. However, despite their frequency, many Georgia DUI roadblocks that are put in place do not meet the appropriate legal guidelines. As a result, many of the arrests made during these stops are unwarranted, which in turn means many of the charges are dismissed in criminal court. 

Officers must follow certain ground rules before they can legally set up a DUI roadblock in Georgia. First and foremost, they must have a legal basis for establishing the checkpoint—such as a high number of DUI arrests in a particular area, for example. Secondly, they must announce the date and location of the roadblock to the public in order to deter drivers from operating a vehicle while impaired.

Finally, for the last two requirements, officers must have a clear plan regarding which vehicles should be stopped and a supervisor must approve the roadblock before it can be put in place. Only after all of these conditions are met can law enforcement enact the roadblock.

When a vehicle is stopped at a roadblock, the driver will be asked to show his or her driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration to the officer on scene. Although you are legally required to provide this information to the officer, you do not have to answer any questions regarding your prior activities—including where you’ve been or if you’ve had anything to drink. In fact, it is best to politely decline to answer such questions, as any statements you make can be used against you later.

What’s more, even if you are stopped in a roadblock, the officer cannot ask you to perform a breath test unless he or she has probable cause to suspect you are under the influence of alcohol. In other words, unless your appearance and/or behavior indicates you are intoxicated, the officer should not assume you are guilty of DUI.

If you were recently arrested for DUI after being stopped in a Georgia roadblock, contact attorney Greg Willis today. As one of the top defense attorneys in the state, Mr. Willis knows everything there is to know about Georgia’s complex DUI laws, including the guidelines officers must follow before setting up a roadblock.

Remember, the penalties of a DUI conviction often include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. With so much at stake, it is important to have an attorney by your side when your day in court arrives. Put one of the best in the state to work for you—call the Law Offices of Greg Willis to schedule your free case evaluation and learn how Mr. Willis and his team of DUI experts can create a strong defense strategy for your situation.

Should you agree Mr. Willis is the best choice for your legal representation, he will also prepare a free license appeal letter for your case. Call now for more information.

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