What to Do if You’re Pulled Over in Georgia?

No one starts their evening expecting to spend the night in jail. Being pulled over can mark the start of a long and stressful ordeal, and the steps you take after being detained can greatly influence the outcome of your case. Knowing what to do if you’re pulled over in Georgia can protect you from making costly mistakes.

Stay Calm and Pull Over Safety

As soon as you see flashing police lights, slow down and pull over to a safe location. Use your turn signal to indicate you are stopping, and leave your hazard lights on as well. Turn on the interior light of your cabin and leave your hands where they are readily visible.

Provide Required Documents

Georgia law requires drivers to provide key documents and identification, like a driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. If you are facing charges such as suspended license in addition to a traffic stop, failure to provide these documents could make matters worse. Keep these documents in an easy-to-reach place so you can find them without trouble. Having them ready to hand over to the police upon request. This shows compliance with the law and that you are making a good-faith effort to be cooperative.

Be Careful About What You Say

You do not have to answer questions about where you are coming from or where you are going. You certainly do not have to discuss whether you have been drinking that evening, even if you are suspected of DUI drugs, or less safe DUI. These questions are designed to collect evidence that can be used against you later.

Beyond identifying yourself and providing documents, you have every right to remain silent about information that could potentially be incriminating.

Stay Respectful and Avoid Escalating the Situation

During any police encounter, it is important to remain respectful. Arguing with the police could only make the situation worse. If you believe that you are being mistreated or that police have violated your rights, you can address those matters later on with the help of an attorney.

Police take notes about your behavior, and acting belligerently could look bad in court. Avoid sudden movements, keep your hands where police can see them, and address officers with courtesy.

Know When to Hire a DUI Lawyer

The ideal time to hire a DUI lawyer is immediately after your arrest. Early representation ensures that your rights are protected under Georgia DUI laws. An experienced DUI attorney can examine the evidence used against you and guide you through complex DUI cases such as felony DUI, second DUI, or under-21 DUI, with a focus on protecting your freedom and driving privileges in court.

Must-Know DUI Stats in Georgia

With 7,663,847 licensed drivers in Georgia, DUI enforcement is a critical public safety issue. In 2022, reports showed that 28% of all traffic fatalities statewide involved alcohol impairment, reflecting the ongoing risks posed by impaired driving.

Local cases are tragic reminders of the seriousness of these charges. In 2021, a woman pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle and DUI after a fatal crash in Liberty County, bringing the case to a close in county court. Though prosecuted locally, the case impacted surrounding areas such as Long County, where residents frequently travel the same roadways, demonstrating how DUI cases have regional consequences.

Defendants charged with DUI in southeast Georgia are often processed through facilities such as the Long County Jail (64 North Main Street, Ludowici, GA 31316) or the Liberty County Jail (180 Paul Sikes Drive, Hinesville, GA 31313). In serious cases, offenders may face prison time at Smith State Prison (9676 U.S. Highway 301 North, Glennville, GA 30427).

FAQs

What Information Do I Have to Provide After Being Pulled Over By Police?

In Georgia, there is certain information you must provide to law enforcement. Discussing anything related to your sobriety is not one of them. You must provide your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance when requested by the police. The police may try to trick or pressure you into discussing whether you were drinking that night or related matters. Remain polite and cooperative, but do not discuss anything that could be incriminating.

Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in Georgia?

Yes, DUI checkpoints are legal in Georgia, but they must follow strict rules. A supervising officer must authorize the stop in advance, and vehicles must be selected using a neutral formula, such as every fifth car. Officers must provide proper warning, avoid unnecessary delays, and clearly identify themselves. When these conditions are met, sobriety checkpoints comply with Georgia law and constitutional standards.

Do You Have to Hand Over Your License to the Police in Georgia?

In Georgia, drivers are legally required to provide their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance when requested by law enforcement during a traffic stop. Refusing to hand over these documents can lead to additional charges, fines, or even an arrest. This requirement applies regardless of the reason you were pulled over. If you believe your rights were violated by law enforcement, discuss the matter with a criminal defense attorney.

What Should I Discuss or Not Discuss When a Cop Pulls Me Over?

If you are pulled over by a cop on suspicion of DUI, you should not discuss your sobriety. You are required to provide information like your license, proof of insurance, and registration. You have the right to remain silent on incriminating matters. By remaining polite and exercising your right to remain silent on certain matters, you can protect your rights and prevent the police from pressuring you to say more than you are required to by law.

Work With Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C.

Knowing how to handle a traffic stop in Georgia can make the difference between a favorable outcome to your case and facing serious consequences. Your actions matter, and following our recommendations can position you for a strong defense that ultimately may clear you of wrongdoing.

If you have concerns or believe your rights were violated during a stop, Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. is here to help. Our team provides experienced, results-driven defense to guide you through every step and safeguard your future. Contact our office today to start planning your defense with a law firm that puts clients first.