In the state of Georgia, someone who drives under the influence and causes serious injury to another may be charged with a felony. The charge, which is officially known as serious injury by vehicle, need not be a permanent injury to the other person for a prosecutor to make the charge. Punishable by a minimum of one year jail time and a maximum of fifteen years, prior DUI convictions combined with a high blood-alcohol content may intensify penalties. WSB-TV reports on a Forsyth County Sheriff’s Deputy hit and injured by a drunk driver.
Early Saturday, Deputy First Class Rod Reeves was sitting in his marked patrol car on GA 400 near Majors Road working traffic enforcement. This is when a 2005 Ford Ranger hit the rear of his patrol car.
Deputy Doug Rainwater said that Reeves’ injuries were significant. He was transported to an area hospital, but his injuries do not appear to be life-threatening.
The driver of the Ford Ranger was identified as 27-year-old Aaron Riley Russell. Officials confirmed that Russell was suspected of driving under the influence. At the time of his arrest, he was driving on a suspended or revoked license. He is considered a habitual violator.
Russell was also taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Have you been injured in an accident? You may have a case. Let the attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. Call today for a consultation.