If you have been charged with “following too closely” in north Georgia, there may be many reasons for the charge. Most often, the ticket is written when you rear-end another vehicle and there is an accident report.
However, you could also be stopped and charged with following too closely, even if there was no accident. The officer could suspect you for a DUI or other crime and use this charge as a reason to stop you. And, if convicted, you will get three points on your license, a fine (typically for first-timers, about $175), plus possible court costs. Commercial drivers could face even more problems.
Whatever the circumstances of your case, you might have some questions about where you stand and what to expect. At the Law Office of Scott Miller in Alpharetta, we want our clients to be informed of their rights and options. So here are some basics of a Georgia following too closely charge.
It’s the Law: Georgia “Following Too Closely” Code
It is always a good idea to understand the law you have been accused of breaking. Georgia Code 40-6-49 spells out exactly what constitutes following too closely and provides both a definition and specific details.
- “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.”
- Drivers are warned to leave enough room for a vehicle towing another vehicle behind it to pass you and pull in front of you safely.
- When traveling in a caravan or motorcade, “allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles so as to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy such space without danger.” This does not apply to things like parades or funeral processions when they are supervised by law enforcement.
- Finally, know that you are still considered to be following if approaching a vehicle that is stopped or slowed to make a turn.
What to Expect if You End Up in Court
There is a very good chance that your “following too closely” case will end up in traffic court. And when it does, you want to be prepared to defend yourself. For this reason, having an Alpharetta traffic violation attorney by your side could make the difference between a full-on guilty verdict and lesser punishments—or even being found not guilty.
When you enter the court, the judge will run the show. He or she will ask all the questions after having everyone sworn in. First, the police officer will read his/her accident report. Then the questions will begin, including the officer, any witnesses or others and, of course, you.
Do the Smart Thing: Get Some Help
As a traffic violation attorney, Scott Miller knows how Georgia traffic laws work. He can help you to gather evidence and plan a strategy. Call us today in Alpharetta at 770-408-1001 or fill out the free consultation form on this page. We serve all towns throughout north Georgia including Roswell, Sandy Springs, Milton, Dunwoody, Atlanta, and many more.
