News reports regarding Atlanta's rapidly growing population have recently come out with some exciting numbers as we approach next year's census count. It is estimated that Atlanta added 10,900 new residents in the last year. The surrounding 10 county region includes Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Fulton counties has had an increase by 72,500 residents.

With more people, there are more commuters. I am sure as any resident of Atlanta can confirm that the roads of the Metro Atlanta Area have definitely been impacted. As a result there are more traffic violations committed on a regular basis. It's a numbers game at the end of the day. Atlanta's roads are some of the most stressful as well as the most dangerous.

As an Atlanta DUI Lawyer, I will outline one of the offenses that appears to be on the rise along with Atlanta's population - driving under the influence in Atlanta.

Driving Under the Influence in Atlanta

Driving under the influence, or simply DUI in Atlanta, is defined by the Georgia Code in O.C.G.A. §40-6-391 as:

 A person shall not drive or be in actual physical control of any moving vehicle while:

(1) Under the influence of alcohol to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(2) Under the influence of any drug to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(3) Under the intentional influence of any glue, aerosol, or other toxic vapor to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(4) Under the combined influence of any two or more of the substances specified in paragraphs (1) through (3) of this subsection to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(5) The person's alcohol concentration is 0.08 grams or more at any time within three hours after such driving or being in actual physical control from alcohol consumed before such driving or being in actual physical control ended; or

(6) Subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section, there is any amount of marijuana or a controlled substance, as defined in Code Section 16-13-21, present in the person's blood or urine, or both, including the metabolites and derivatives of each or both without regard to whether or not any alcohol is present in the person's breath or blood.

The penalties for a conviction of DUI are serious and should not be faced alone or without representation

Practice Note

Atlanta DUI Penalties are extensive. An Atlanta DUI Attorney can help mitigate or completely defend against these penalties based on the circumstances of your case. Call now.