Fleeing & Eluding in Savannah

Criminal Defense Attorneys for Fleeing & Eluding Charges

Most drivers can attest to the knot of anxiety and embarrassment in their stomachs when their rear-view mirror reflects those infamous flashing lights. 

Though getting pulled over and confronting police is rarely something you seek to do when you’re out for a drive, it’s imperative that you obey and stop for the police. 

If you flee from police in Georgia, you could face serious consequences, ranging from a high aggravated misdemeanor to a felony.

Contact Schneider Lerch Bronston, LLC immediately for representation against your fleeing charge by calling (912) 417-5008.

Consequences of Fleeing in Georgia

Fleeing is a serious traffic offense as it stands independently. It is charged as a high and aggravated misdemeanor and carries hefty fines and jail sentences that vary based on how many similar prior offenses you have committed. 

Drivers who flee or elude police will face the following consequences:

• A first-time conviction for fleeing in Georgia will result in a fine between $500 and $5,000 and between ten days and twelve months in jail.
• A second fleeing offense within ten years of the initial conviction will result in a fine between $1,000 and $5,000 and 30 days to one year in jail.
• A third conviction within the ten-year period will result in a fine of $2,500 and $5,000 and a jail sentence of 90 days to one year.

Given the severity of the consequences, it is important that drivers facing any of these charges contact one of our Savannah attorneys to get the legal defense they need.

Can You Refuse to Exit Your Vehicle in Georgia?

In Georgia, you should only get out of your car during a traffic stop if the police officer asks you to do so. The officer has the right to insist you leave your vehicle, regardless of weather conditions or reason for asking. 

If you refuse, you could be arrested for misdemeanor obstruction. 

Suppose your disobedience escalates to a threat or violent act on the officer. In that case, the violation becomes a felony punishable by one to five years in prison. 

When Fleeing Becomes a Felony

Unfortunately, fleeing is often the result of other traffic infractions or unlawful conduct. It is important to note that when accompanied by specific additional factors, even a first conviction can be a felony. 

Fleeing becomes a felony charge when the driver:

• Speeding 20 MPH above the posted limit
• Hits another vehicle or pedestrian
• Flees in a manner that puts others in the area at risk
• Flees with a Blood Alcohol Concentration of .08% or more
• Leaves the state

If a person tries to avoid arrest and commits one of the previously mentioned actions, they will be charged with a felony. 

Felonies consisting of one or more of these actions are subject to a fine up to $5,000 and/or anywhere between one and five years in prison. 

Once your record has a felony on it, you may find it difficult to improve your credit, find housing, or become employed.

Fleeing is Often Associated With Other Charges

Fleeing and eluding charges are often accompanied by additional offenses. For example, DUI charges are commonly associated with fleeing because people wish to avoid responsibility of being charged with a DUI. 

Here is a list of common charges associated with fleeing or eluding charges in Savannah: 

• DUI
• Driving with a suspended license
• Warrant that was already issued for their arrest
• Drug possession
• Theft crimes
• And more

No matter your situation, our Georgia criminal defense attorneys can help. Schedule a consultation with Schneider Lerch Bronston, LLC.

How Can a Traffic Offense Attorney Help Me?

One of our traffic attorneys will meet with you to review the specifics of your traffic case. While reviewing the event, we can identify if any defenses that would prove your innocence apply, such as if:

• The officer or their vehicle was not immediately recognizable as law enforcement
• The officer failed to clearly direct you to stop

Our attorneys will help you determine if your charge is due to an error made by the officer. Georgia law states that the officer must be in their uniform with their badge visibly displayed. 

The vehicle must also be clearly marked as a police vehicle. Any gray area and uncertainty regarding the legitimacy of the officer and their status or the clarity of their instructions could be grounds for invalidating your case.

Is Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Serious Charge?

Fleeing is a serious conviction across the country, and Georgia is no exception. If you have been arrested for attempting to elude law enforcement, call Schneider Lerch Bronston, LLC. We will fight to protect you and negotiate a fair sentence.

Call Schneider Lerch Bronston, LLC’s fleeing and eluding lawyers to review your case today: (912) 417-5008.