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Super speeders pose a real danger to other drivers on the road. Their reckless driving can result in rear-end, sideswipe or rollover accidents with serious injuries resulting from rear endswipings or rollsovers.
DUI checkpoints are fixed roadway locations where police officers temporarily stop motorists to detect any signs of impairment, typically around holidays or events that create heavy traffic volumes.
1. Identifying a Speed Trap
An area of Georgia 400 southbound near 285 in Sandy Springs has become a hot spot for speeders, according to Sandy Springs police department who shared an image from radar capturing one vehicle going 115 mph in a 65-mph zone on Monday night – giving their driver a ticket for exceeding triple-digit speeds.
Residents should report suspected speed traps by calling ChatComm, the police department’s automated phone line at 404-434-2677, which reviews calls and may request to visit the location in person.
SSPD recently increased their efforts to crack down on speeders, particularly within school zones. Red Speed Georgia license plate reader systems will detect vehicles driving at 11mph over the speed limit; devices can be activated as early as an hour before school begins and up until one hour after classes have concluded; signs will also be put up warning drivers that citations will be issued.
Other ways to avoid speed traps include monitoring traffic flow and being alert for sudden stops or abrupt lane changes, or sudden braking or abrupt changes. If you see a checkpoint, try and stay as close to the right-hand side of the road as possible and remember that according to state law only a certain percentage of local law enforcement agencies’ budget can come from speeding tickets issued as revenue.
2. Avoiding a Speed Trap
Speed traps may seem illegal to many drivers, but in most states including DC they are legal. A speed trap is an area on the road where police officers monitor for individuals breaking the law by using radar equipment to detect speeds and then issue tickets – the goal being that this helps catch those who may have not realized they were speeding or perhaps didn’t recognize their actions in time to slow down sufficiently.
Local governments justify these reduced-speed zones with claims they aim to increase traffic safety and lower risk. While motorists may find these restricted-speed zones frustrating, as their speed limit changes suddenly in areas where they might naturally drive fast, there are several strategies you can employ to help avoid getting a ticket under such circumstances.
Assume safety when driving, follow speed limits, and stay vigilant; but if pulled over for speeding it’s essential that you consult an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. Your attorney can review the evidence against you to ascertain if there was probable cause to pull you over, potentially saving you from costly fines, increased auto insurance rates, or points on your driver’s license. Reach out today and contact Jim Yeargan from Sandy Springs traffic law for help in reviewing your case!
3. Identifying a DUI Checkpoint
Checkpoints are fixed roadway locations where police officers stop motorists to assess signs of intoxication. DUI checkpoints have long been controversial; civil liberties advocates contend they violate drivers’ constitutional protection against unreasonable search and seizure; however, the U.S. Supreme Court has found them legal provided certain guidelines are met.
Location and timing of DUI checkpoints must first be approved by a supervisor in advance, then publicized to allow drivers an opportunity to avoid them if possible. Finally, officers conducting these DUI checks must adhere strictly to established protocols; not picking and choosing cars to stop or delaying them unreasonably for prolonged periods; as this will help avoid racial profiling and discrimination against certain demographics.
At a DUI checkpoint, drivers should lower their windows and allow officers to inspect their vehicles for signs of intoxication such as alcohol or drug scent, slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. They may ask drivers to perform field sobriety tests; additionally they will probably request their license and registration, along with where they’re coming from or going.
An officer may request to search your vehicle, requiring either a warrant or probable cause as the basis. You can decline such searches by telling them politely that you do not consent and that their conduct violates your Fourth Amendment rights.
4. Defending Against a DUI Checkpoint
An arrest for DUI can have serious repercussions in every aspect of life: jobs lost, higher premiums on insurance policies and even jail time can all result from such convictions.
DUI checkpoints (also referred to as sobriety roadblocks) have long been contentious in many states. Their purpose is often aimed at profiteering for police departments by increasing DUI arrests and tickets issued for other offenses such as drug offenses or outstanding warrants. According to the Supreme Court rulings on these safety checks, as long as they follow specific guidelines – location and duration being advertised beforehand.
If you find yourself stopped at a sobriety checkpoint, be sure to document everything that happens by taking notes and recording cell phone video footage so as to have evidence in case any rights violations arise. A Sandy Springs DUI attorney could also prove invaluable at helping protect your interests and guide your decisions during this process.
Jim Yeargan’s expertise as a Sandy Springs DUI attorney can significantly increase your odds of a positive result in your case. He understands all the people involved with prosecuting DUI charges and can fight hard on your behalf for dismissal or reduction of charges against you. Contact him now to discover how he can assist.