Understanding DUI and Hit & Run Charges in Georgia: A Comprehensive Guide

Driving under the influence (DUI) and hit-and-run charges are serious offenses in Georgia, and understanding the details surrounding these charges can help you make better choices. Facing a DUI or a hit-and-run charge can be frightening and confusing, with many people unsure about what comes next. Georgia laws are strict on these matters, and those found guilty of DUI or hit-and-run charges face a range of severe consequences, which can include fines, loss of driving privileges, or even jail time. Knowing the basics of DUI and hit-and-run charges, along with potential penalties, may help you understand the impact these charges can have on your future. At, Willis Law Firm, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.

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Understanding DUI in Georgia

A DUI charge in Georgia happens when a person operates a vehicle with alcohol or drugs impairing their ability to drive. DUI charges cover not only alcohol but also drugs and prescription medications if they impair a driver. If a driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more, they are legally over the limit and may be charged with DUI. For drivers under 21, the BAC limit is even lower at 0.02%, and for commercial drivers, the limit is set at 0.04%. The legal system in Georgia treats DUI as a serious threat to road safety, and the consequences reflect the gravity of the offense.

People charged with DUI may face various penalties depending on factors like prior offenses and BAC level. First-time offenders may face fines, community service, and possible jail time. Second and subsequent offenses bring harsher penalties, including increased fines, longer jail terms, and mandatory ignition interlock devices. These penalties are designed to deter repeat offenses and ensure that roads remain safe. DUI charges are not taken lightly, and the punishments serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with driving.

The Process Following a DUI Arrest

When someone is arrested for DUI, the process involves several steps, beginning with the arrest and possibly a breath or blood test to determine BAC. Following the arrest, the driver may be taken to jail and given a court date to face the charges. Georgia law requires the driver to be informed of the charges and their right to a hearing. A DUI charge affects not only the criminal record but also the driver’s license. In Georgia, a driver’s license may be suspended immediately upon a DUI arrest, and the driver has 30 days to request a hearing to contest this suspension.

During court proceedings, the individual may present evidence and, if possible, show that they were not impaired. In some cases, plea deals may be negotiated to reduce penalties, but this depends on the specific circumstances of the case. A DUI charge requires the driver to attend court proceedings, and missing these dates can lead to additional penalties, including a warrant for arrest. With each DUI offense, the penalties grow in severity, making it crucial for individuals to understand their rights and responsibilities following an arrest.

Greg Willis has been successful at defending DUI cases (over 93% without a conviction)

He's the only lawyer in the State of Georgia to ever be recognized for all three of these accomplishments.

Received the Samurai Lawyer Award for having gone to jail for a total of 4 days in order to save his own client

Received the BadAss Lawyer Award for the biggest impact of all DUI lawyers in DUI defense in the country

Received the vote of Georgia Lawyers as a Superlawyer in DUI Law for 10 straight consecutive years

Consequences of a DUI Conviction

Convictions for DUI bring significant and lasting consequences. In addition to fines and possible jail time, there are personal and professional costs. A DUI on your record can affect job opportunities, insurance rates, and even certain licenses. Employers may hesitate to hire someone with a DUI conviction, and car insurance rates can increase dramatically. Convictions may also lead to probation, community service, and required alcohol or drug counseling sessions.

Repeat DUI convictions come with more severe consequences. With each offense, jail sentences become longer, fines increase, and driving privileges may be permanently revoked. Georgia courts do not take DUI offenses lightly, and the punishments are meant to discourage further violations. People convicted of DUI face an impact on their lives that goes beyond legal consequences, affecting employment and relationships. Understanding these consequences highlights the importance of making safe decisions when behind the wheel.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Charges in Georgia

A hit-and-run charge happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing contact information or checking if anyone needs help. In Georgia, it is illegal to leave an accident scene, especially when someone is injured or there is property damage. The law expects drivers involved in accidents to stop immediately, provide their name and contact information, and help anyone who might be hurt. Hit-and-run charges are serious and carry penalties that can include fines, license suspension, and jail time.

Hit-and-run charges apply not only to accidents with other cars but also to accidents involving pedestrians and property damage. When a driver leaves the scene, the law enforcement takes it as an attempt to avoid responsibility. Georgia’s laws ensure that drivers who cause or are involved in accidents remain at the scene to address any issues and exchange information. Failing to do so can lead to severe consequences.

Greg has truly mastered his craft. His preparation is second to none and his confidence helps reduce the nervousness and anxiety his clients face. He is a real life version of Harvey Specter and I highly recommend him.”

- Travis

Greg and his team are absolutely incredible. Greg explained everything to me in detail, as this is the first ever time I have been arrested. Regular updates throughout the process which allowed me to get on with everyday life. 200% I would recommend Greg and his team to anyone with a DUI case."

- James Hellens

Mr Willis is the best in the business. He knows the law inside and out. I was in a serious jam and Greg got my dui reduced to a reckless driving. This man will fight for you every step of the way."

- Anonymous

Steps to Take if Accused of a Hit-and-Run

Being accused of a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, and understanding what to do is essential. First, if you are accused, remember that you have the right to remain silent and seek legal help. Avoid discussing the incident with others, as anything said could be used against you in court. After a hit-and-run accusation, gathering information is crucial. This can include obtaining any available security camera footage, witness statements, or photographs of the scene. These pieces of evidence may help defend against the accusations.

Legal representation is essential in hit-and-run cases, as a skilled attorney can navigate the complexities of Georgia law. Legal professionals may help prove that you were not at fault, or that the accident did not occur as claimed. This guidance is crucial, as Georgia courts impose strict punishments for those convicted of hit-and-run offenses. Seeking legal counsel early can provide peace of mind and ensure a fair defense.

Consequences of a Hit-and-Run Conviction

The consequences of a hit-and-run conviction vary depending on the accident’s severity. If the accident involves property damage alone, penalties may include fines, license suspension, or a brief jail sentence. However, if the accident involves injury or death, penalties are much harsher, with possible felony charges and extended prison time. A felony hit-and-run conviction affects a person’s future, potentially making it difficult to find employment or housing.

Georgia’s laws are clear on holding drivers accountable, and hit-and-run cases are taken seriously in the legal system. Penalties for hit-and-run offenses serve as a deterrent and aim to remind drivers of their duty to stay at the scene and provide help if needed. Leaving an accident scene without following legal requirements brings serious consequences that affect every aspect of a person’s life, from legal penalties to personal challenges. Recognizing these impacts emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility after an accident.

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Why DUI and Hit-and-Run Charges Are Treated Seriously

DUI and hit-and-run charges put others in danger, and Georgia’s legal system treats them as serious threats to public safety. DUI cases often involve impaired drivers whose ability to make decisions is compromised. Likewise, hit-and-run cases show a disregard for others’ well-being by failing to help those who might need assistance. Both charges reflect a lack of responsibility that the law seeks to correct with strict punishments.

The state’s response to DUI and hit-and-run offenses aims to prevent future incidents and promote safety on the roads. By imposing penalties, Georgia’s legal system works to remind drivers of their responsibilities. When drivers fail to make safe choices, they put themselves and others at risk. These charges carry consequences that are meant to serve as a reminder to the community about the importance of safe driving and responsible behavior on the road.

How Georgia DUI Laws Apply to Hit & Run Accidents Involving Pedestrians

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime in Georgia and can result in severe penalties. However, when a DUI incident involves a hit-and-run accident with a pedestrian, the consequences can be even more severe. In this blog post, we will discuss how Georgia DUI laws apply to hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians.

Georgia DUI Laws

In Georgia, DUI is defined as driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. If an individual is caught driving under the influence, they can face severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. However, if the DUI incident involves a hit-and-run accident with a pedestrian, the penalties can be even more severe.

Hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians

In Georgia, hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians are taken very seriously. If an individual is involved in a hit and run accident with a pedestrian, they can face felony charges. Under Georgia law, a felony hit and run is defined as leaving the scene of an accident that involves serious injury or death.

If an individual is convicted of a felony hit and run, they can face severe penalties, including a prison sentence of up to 15 years and fines of up to $10,000. Additionally, their driver’s license may be suspended for a minimum of one year.

How Georgia DUI Laws Apply to Hit-and-Run Accidents Involving Pedestrians

If an individual is involved in a hit-and-run accident with a pedestrian while driving under the influence, they can face even more severe penalties. In addition to the penalties for the hit-and-run accident, they can also face penalties for the DUI.

Under Georgia law, if an individual is convicted of a DUI involving a hit-and-run accident with a pedestrian, they can face felony charges. The penalties for a felony DUI can include a prison sentence of up to five years and fines of up to $5,000. Additionally, their driver’s license may be suspended for a minimum of three years.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that leaving the scene of an accident, even if no one is injured, is also a crime in Georgia. Under Georgia law, a driver is required to stop immediately at the scene of an accident and provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to any person involved in the accident or the police.

Failure to do so can result in a hit-and-run charge, which carries significant legal consequences, including jail time and fines. Leaving the scene of an accident, particularly when a pedestrian is involved, is a cowardly and reprehensible act that shows a lack of respect for human life.

Therefore, if you are involved in an accident with a pedestrian, the responsible course of action is to remain at the scene and provide aid and assistance to the person injured, if possible. Contacting the authorities and providing accurate and truthful information can go a long way in mitigating the legal and moral consequences of such an incident.

Hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians are a severe crime in Georgia, particularly when the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is essential to be aware of the legal consequences of one’s actions and to always drive responsibly, particularly when pedestrians are present. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately and work with the authorities to ensure that justice is served.

As a law firm, we specialize in defending individuals accused of DUI and hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians in Georgia. Our experienced attorneys understand the legal complexities of such cases and can provide expert legal advice and representation to clients in need.

If you are facing charges related to a hit-and-run accident involving a pedestrian while under the influence, we can help in several ways. We can:

• Provide legal representation: We can provide legal representation for clients facing DUI and hit-and-run charges. Our experienced attorneys can defend your rights, negotiate plea deals, and represent you in court if necessary.
• Explain the law: We can explain the legal consequences of a hit-and-run accident involving a pedestrian while under the influence. We can help clients understand the charges they are facing, the penalties they may be subject to, and the legal options available to them.
• Investigate the case: We can investigate the circumstances of the hit-and-run accident and gather evidence to build a strong defense. We can work with investigators, experts, and witnesses to build a comprehensive case that supports our client’s defense.
• Negotiate with prosecutors: We can negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or penalties for our clients. We can work to reach a plea deal that minimizes the consequences of the case and avoids a lengthy trial.
• Provide guidance and support: We can provide guidance and support to clients throughout the legal process. We can answer questions, provide advice, and offer emotional support to clients during a challenging and stressful time.

We can help individuals facing DUI and hit-and-run charges involving pedestrians by providing legal representation, explaining the law, investigating the case, negotiating with prosecutors, and providing guidance and support. If you find yourself in such a situation, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

What Constitutes Being Unaware of a Collision?

Being unaware of a collision can occur for several reasons. In some cases, a driver may not feel or hear the impact, particularly if the collision was minor or occurred in a larger vehicle. Environmental factors such as heavy rain, loud music, or other distractions can also contribute to a driver not realizing that they have been involved in an accident. Additionally, collisions that occur at night or in low-visibility conditions can be challenging for a driver to detect.

In legal terms, being unaware of a collision does not automatically absolve a driver of responsibility. The court will examine the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether it was reasonable for the driver to be unaware. This evaluation includes considering the size and type of the vehicle, the conditions at the time of the accident, and the driver’s actions immediately before and after the incident.

The burden of proof in such cases lies with the prosecution, who must demonstrate that the driver should have reasonably known about the collision. If the prosecution can prove that the driver’s ignorance was due to negligence or recklessness, the driver may still be held liable for hit-and-run charges, even if they genuinely did not know they were involved in an accident.

How an Attorney Can Help with DUI and Hit-and-Run Charges

Facing DUI or hit-and-run charges is intimidating, and many people feel uncertain about how to handle the situation. An attorney can be a vital ally in such cases, helping individuals understand their rights, gather evidence, and work toward a fair outcome. Legal professionals can guide people through the complexities of Georgia’s legal system, explaining potential defenses and representing them in court. They help ensure that the accused receive a fair trial and understand the charges against them.

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In DUI cases, attorneys may challenge the validity of breath tests, field sobriety tests, or the arresting officer’s actions. Similarly, in hit-and-run cases, legal professionals can help gather evidence, such as video footage or witness statements, to provide a defense. With the help of a lawyer, individuals facing these charges can feel more secure knowing that their rights are being protected. Seeking legal help is an essential step for anyone dealing with DUI or hit-and-run charges in Georgia.

If you or someone you know is facing DUI or hit-and-run charges in Georgia, the legal team at Willis Law Firm is ready to assist. Navigating these charges can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. The attorneys at Willis Law Firm are dedicated to providing strong representation and ensuring that you understand each step of the process. Their team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Reach out to Willis Law Firm today to learn how they can support you during this challenging time.