What is driving in the gore? Is cutting through the gore illegal?
The “gore” is the area of convergence between two lanes of traffic, typically found between a highway lane and an entrance or exit ramp. It is usually marked by white lines and is intended to help organize traffic safely.
If a police officer or Georgia State Patrol (GSP) cruiser sees you traveling through the gore you will receive a ticket. Don’t delay in calling us the same day you get ticketed.
The more lead time we have before your first court date the better we can prepare a solid defense against this traffic violation, gather evidence, and talk to the prosecutor.
Prohibited Actions: According to O.C.G.A. § 40-6-50(b), it is illegal to drive over, across, or within any gore, dividing space, barrier, or paved shoulder separating the roadways of a divided highway.
You will see drivers on Atlanta’s gore road interstates merging onto traffic, and instead of traveling within the white on-ramp lines a driver will “cut through” in an effort to get into a faster lane of traffic. Another reason is to avoid metered merging where 2 on-ramp lanes funnel into one lane through the use of red lights and green lights. Sometimes people will pull into the gore because their vehicle has broken down. Other common scenarios include:
- Cutting across the gore to re-enter the highway after exiting on the wrong ramp
- Cutting through the because you almost missed your exit
- Driving across the gore when merging onto the highway from an entrance ramp
What Are the Penalties for Gore Violations?
If convicted of this traffic violation you will face a fine of up to $1,000, and 3 points will be added to your driving record. Although rare, you coulkd serve up to 12 months in jail, but this penalty applies only to drivers with a seriously negative driving history.
Increased insurance premiums or potential cancellation of your policy can happen if you accumulate too many points.
Potential Defenses by Your Traffic Ticket Lawyer
Criminal defense attorneys Larry Kohn and Cory Yager will defend you in traffic court and present one of the following defense strategies:
Emergency Situations: If you drove into the gore due to an emergency, such as car trouble or to avoid an accident, this can be a valid defense.
Unclear Markings: If the gore was not clearly marked, for example, if the lines were faded or it was dark and visibility was poor, you might have a defense.
Forced Into the Gore: If you were forced into the gore by another vehicle or due to traffic conditions, this can be a defense. Evidence or witness testimony can support this argument.
Some reasons for crossing the gore are not valid defenses, for example swerving into the gore because you almost missed your exit. You are expected to keep traveling down the highway and making a u-turn at the next exit, or simply traveling to your destination on a different route.
Another invalid reason is that you were in a hurry. Being in a hurry and cutting across the gore to merge faster is not a valid defense.
Call our law office today at (404) 567-5515 and take advantage of our free consultation with a top-rated traffic lawyer. Your attorney can help you understand your options and build a strong defense. They can also negotiate with the prosecutor to potentially reduce the charges or penalties. We will answer all of your questions, for example:
- What are the best defenses against a driving in the gore charge?
- How can I contest a ticket for driving in the gore?
- Are there any specific circumstances that might reduce the penalties for driving in the gore?
- What are the potential consequences of points on my driving record?
- Can I get my driving in the gore ticket dismissed?
We will collect any evidence that supports your defense, such as photos of the gore area, witness statements, or documentation of an emergency. We also have access to traffic expert witnesses who can bolster your chances of a favorable case outcome. Be prepared to appear in court and present your case. Your attorney can guide you through this process and represent you in court.
By understanding the charge, potential penalties, and available defenses, you can better navigate the legal process and work towards a favorable outcome. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is crucial to effectively handling a driving in the gore citation in Georgia. Call our law office and speak to an attorney the same day. (404) 567-5515