Drunk Driver Smashes Into Police Car During High Speed Chase

A high speed chase occurred early on Friday, February 18, 2019, when police went after a suspected drunk driver. Georgia State Patrol troopers attempted to pull over a Honda CRV on Interstate 85 north near Georgia 400.

When police attempted to initiate the stop, the driver refused and kept going. The officer attempted to perform a "pit maneuver," causing the Honda CRV to spin. However, the driver was able to continue. The driver then exited the highway at North Druid Hills, then headed east toward Decatur, GA.

The trooper continued to follow the suspected drunk driver, and after passing Briarcliff Road the trooper attempted the "pit maneuver" again. The Honda CRV ended up ramming the trooper's car, performed a U-turn, and then proceeded back towards the interstate.

On the northbound entrance ramp back to the highway, the suspected drunk driver lost control of his vehicle and smacked into the guard rail. This impact allowed the trooper the chance to pin the Honda CRV. Once the vehicle was pinned, the driver jumped out of the car and tried to flee on foot, but was quickly caught by the trooper while still on the ramp.

The driver of the Honda CRV suffered only a cut lip. He was treated at the scene and then arrested. No officers were injured.

The driver of the Honda CRV now faces the following charges:

• driving under the influence (DUI),
• fleeing and eluding, and
• possible drug charges stemming from narcotics found in the vehicle.

If you or someone you care for has been arrested for DUI or fleeing and eluding, an experienced Forsyth County DUI attorney can defend your case and protect your rights.

Fleeing or Attempting to Elude in Georgia

It is illegal for a driver to flee from police to avoid being pulled over or arrested. When a police officer signals to a driver to pull over, by light, hand signal, or audible signal, the driver is required to comply.

Penalties

Upon a first conviction for fleeing or attempting to elude, a person faces the following potential penalties:

• time in jail between 10 days and 12 months (1 year);
• a fine between $500 up to a maximum of $5,000.

If a person is convicted of fleeing or attempting to elude a second time, he or she faces the following potential penalties:

• No less than 30 days in jail, up to a maximum of 1 year;
• fine of no less than $1,000 up to a maximum of $5,000.

If a person is convicted of fleeing or attempting to elude 3 or more times within 10 years, he or she faces:

• minimum of 90 days in jail, up to 1 year;
• minimum fine of $2,500 up to a maximum of $5,000.

If a person meets the specific requirements to be charged with felony fleeing or attempting to elude, a person can face:

• a prison term between 1 year to 5 years; and
• a fine of up to $5,000.

Consult a Forsyth County DUI Attorney

If you have been charged with DUI or fleeing or attempting to elude, an experienced Forsyth County DUI attorney can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.