Police Chase in Coweta County Exemplifies DUI-Drug Charges in Georgia

A police chase in Coweta County last Friday night resulted in a young woman being charged with DUI-Drugs, Driving on a Suspended License, Fleeing and Eluding Officers, Possession of Narcotics, and more. 

The night started after a Coweta County officer allegedly watched Shanna Sheets drift in and out of a lane on Newnan Crossing Bypass. The officer attempted to pull her over, which compelled her to accelerate and speed in an apartment complex. According to the report, she circled the buildings and drove through grass and walkways. She finally crashed into a Coweta County Deputy's SUV. She was caught after she attempted to run away from the scene. She admitted to being under the influence of Xanax and methamphetamines, and after the officers searched her car, they found drug paraphernalia and prescription medication. 

Let's examine a DUI Drug Charge in Georgia.

According to Georgia's DUI Statute, there are three major provisions pertaining to driving under the influence of drugs.  “A person shall not drive while under the influence of any drug to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive. A person shall not drive under the influence of a combination of substances (i.e. drugs and alcohol) to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive. A person cannot be under the influence of prescription drugs, even if a drug or drugs are prescribed legally.  However, in order to uphold a conviction, the State must prove that such legally prescribed medication rendered the individual incapable of driving safely.” O.C.G.A. §40-6-391.

The question as a result of the statute is whether the accused person is under the influence of a drug to the extent that they are a less safe driver. Officers provide main determining factors when deciding whether an individual is a less safe driver. These factors include the observed driving, mannerisms, standardized field sobriety testing, admissions, and chemical testing results. Sheets allegedly admitted to being under the influence of methamphetamines and Xanax. If the allegation is true, Sheets will need a trained and experienced Georgia DUI Attorney.

So, let's analyze the importance of having a trained and experienced Georgia DUI Attorney.

A top Georgia DUI Lawyer will know how to apply different defenses to a DUI-Drugs case. They will understand how to challenge the use of field sobriety testing by questioning whether or not a test was performed correctly. They will also understand the science of drug impairment and know the best way to consult with toxicologists to build the best defense. Blood tests also result in errors, and again, a top DUI attorney will understand how to work with pharmacology experts. They will examine all evidence against you and achieve the best possible defense in your case. 

There are defenses to drug-related DUI in Georgia. Call our office now to discuss your case. Talk to a Georgia DUI Drugs Lawyer today.