Since this past weekend, thousands of Atlantans are without power after severe storms and rain blew through the area. The city has been under a severe thunderstorm watch for the past few days as waves of storms move through the North Georgia region.

Bad weather leads to more mistakes on the road. Regardless of intentions and regardless of the weather, Atlanta police officers expect all to abide the law. However, there is typically an increase in minor traffic violations during inclement weather which in turn leads to more investigations for serious traffic violations such as DUI in Atlanta.

As an Atlanta DUI Lawyer, I will outline the law behind DUI in the city of Atlanta so as to provide more clarity as to what constitutes driving under the influence.

DUI in Atlanta

Atlanta DUI Law is broad and covers more than just driving under the influence of alcohol. The Georgia Code defines DUI 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.

Penalties for a DUI conviction should not be taken lightly. The consequences for a conviction are not just a slap on the wrist, but multiple long-lasting punishments that ultimately can change a person's life and day-to-day activities.

Practice Note

DUI and other crimes in Atlanta should be taken very seriously. If you or a loved one has been arrested, please contact our offices today. We can help you protect both your rights and you're freedom.

Remember - there is no such thing as Atlanta DUI Expungement. DUI convictions stay on a person's record forever. There is no reason to take a chance with your record. Call now.