Two Drivers Charged with DUI in Newnan

Coweta County Courthouse

Newnan, Ga. - Authorities in Coweta County ended up arresting a suspected drunk driver after he crashed his vehicle. But that's not the most interesting part of the accusation. A second suspected drunk driver came to pick him up and then crashed that vehicle as well.

Both individuals were charged with a litany of traffic violations. What was most fascinating to officers that responded to the scenes of both crashes was that inside both vehicles were several different open containers of alcohol.

As a Georgia DUI Lawyer, I will outline the offense of open container in today's post.

Open Container in Georgia

O.C.G.A. § 40-5-253 defines the offense of Open Container in Georgiaas:

The consumption or possession of open alcoholic beverages in the passenger area of any vehicle while on a public highway or shoulder of a public highway is prohibited.

If you are convicted of possessing an open container, two points will be added to your Georgia driver's license.

Moreover, if you have been charged with DUI, an open container violation may bring enhanced charges and harsher penalties. If you are stopped for a traffic violation and the police officer notices an open container in the vehicle, he will be on heightened alert for any other clues that you might be an impaired driver. 

An open container charge actually strengthens the case against you because an open container is further evidence that you had, in fact, been drinking as well as shows a disregard for the law and irresponsible behavior.

Practice Note

Charges for DUI in Georgia should not be taken lightly. If you or a loved one has been arrested, call our offices today.