DUI charges are serious because of the stiff punishments faced by those who are convicted of the allegations. That said, every Georgia DUI case is different and some are far more serious than others. For example, if an individual is arrested and charged with DUI after being involved in a fatal accident, vehicular homicide charges may also come into play and that could represent the threat of a lengthy jail sentence.
On Friday, Sept. 27, a 24-year-old man was arrested and charged with DUI after he was in a 3-vehicle car crash. Not only was he charged with DUI but police also faulted the young man in the accident, alleging that the accident was caused by his failure to stay in his lane. Tragically, the crash resulted in the death of a 58-year-old motorcyclist.
The most serious charge that police have lodged against the driver is vehicular homicide. However, anyone who is facing such serious allegations must remember that they will always remain innocent in the eyes of the law, until — and only if – a jury of their piers convicts them of the allegations. Everyone will have their day in court to defend themselves and a lot can be done through criminal defense strategies to better the situation of the accused.
In a case such as this, which involves multiple charges — DUI, vehicular homicide, and failure to maintain a lane – a criminal defense must take a multi-faceted approach to defend against each allegation individually. At the same time, the defense must take into account the potential for being convicted and if necessary, put forward a plea bargain, where the accused can get more serious charges – such as vehicular homicide — dropped, in exchange for a guilty plea on less serious charges. Ultimately, every Georgia DUI case is unique and will require a detailed examination of the facts in addition to an investigation of the accident scene to determine the best strategy of defense.
Source: myfoxatlanta.com, Man, 24, charged with DUI in fatal crash on East Ponce – Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports, No author, Sept. 27, 2013