Savannah DUI Checkpoints Lawyer
Contact Our Experienced Attorney
One of the most frightening and unnerving moments is encountering a DUI checkpoint. Even if you believe you waiting long enough to drive after having a few drinks, the police officer might find reasonable cause to arrest you for a DUI. Not only will your license be suspended, serve jail time or pay fines worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, but your reputation is permanently scarred with a criminal record. The State of Georgia allows the police to perform sobriety checkpoints.
However, there are a number of guidelines law enforcement must abide by, including:
- Announcing the time and location of each checkpoint
- Possessing a legal basis for the checkpoint, such as concentrated area of DUI arrests
- Inspecting every vehicle which passes through the checkpoint
- Probable cause before DUI arrest
- All checkpoints must be approved by a supervisor
What to Expect at a Georgia Checkpoint
When you are stopped at a sobriety checkpoint, the police officer will ask you standard questions, like your name and address, and ask for your license and registration. You are obligated to answer these questions and submit the following requested documents. The officer may ask you if you have been drinking as an attempt to establish probable cause in order to arrest you. You do not have to answer this question.
As the officer reviews your documents, he or she will look for the following indicators of impairment:
- Smell of alcohol in vehicle
- Slurred speech
- Open alcohol containers
- Physical indications, such as poor hand-eye coordination
- Drug paraphernalia
- Admitting to drinking alcohol
Get a Complimentary Consultation with Robert F. Pirkle
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a DUI during a sobriety checkpoint, your best chance to defend yourself in a court of law is with the help of an experienced Savannah attorney. Attorney Robert F. Pirkle has been practicing law for over 35 years and has experienced both sides of the courtroom. He has comprehensive knowledge of the Georgia legal system and is capable of successfully protecting your rights.
Contact us today by calling (912) 493-9506.
