In the early morning hours of a recent Thursday, a single-vehicle accident on Airport Road in Chattooga County escalated into a serious legal incident involving a 19-year-old local driver. At approximately 3:59 AM, law enforcement responded to a dramatic crash at 77 Airport Road, where a 2013 Nissan Rogue sustained significant front-end damage. The driver, identified as Dawson Garrett Scherer, was found in the vehicle's driver's seat, displaying clear signs of impairment. Deputy Benjamin Mollohan arrived on the scene at 4:10 AM to find Scherer with his head in his hands, slurring his words and providing inconsistent accounts of the incident. The crash site showed extensive damage, including a destroyed fence in the 700-800 block of Airport Road that matched the vehicle's damage. Emergency responders quickly assessed the situation, and Scherer was subsequently transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident, facing multiple charges related to driving under the influence.

The stretch of Airport Road where the accident occurred is a critical transportation route in Chattooga County, characterized by rural road conditions that can be challenging, especially during early morning hours. This section of the road features open areas with minimal lighting and potential visibility issues, particularly for younger drivers. The proximity to local infrastructure suggests the area is a mix of residential and agricultural lands, with sparse traffic control devices beyond standard road signage. Nearby landmarks include local agricultural properties and potential access routes to county facilities, making the road a significant thoroughfare for local residents and agricultural traffic. The road's design and early morning conditions likely contributed to the increased risk factors for this particular incident.

Under Georgia state law, drivers under 21 are subject to strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption and driving. The implied consent law mandates that individuals in this age group submit to chemical testing when suspected of driving under the influence, with potential consequences including license suspension and criminal penalties. Potential legal consequences for such an incident may include fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, mandatory alcohol education programs, and possible probation. Insurance implications are significant, with potential premium increases, policy cancellation, or difficulty obtaining future coverage. Victims of such incidents may be entitled to pursue compensation for property damage, potential personal injuries, and other related expenses. While legal recourse varies, timely documentation and professional legal consultation are crucial for protecting one's rights.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Chattooga County Sheriff's Office: (706) 857-4121
• Chattooga County Emergency Management: (706) 857-3780
• Local Hospital Emergency Department: (706) 857-1200

Traffic Safety Resources

• Georgia Department of Driver Services: https://dds.georgia.gov
• Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety: https://gohs.georgia.gov
• Chattooga County Traffic Safety Program: (706) 857-0152

Support Services

• Victim Support Helpline: 1-800-394-2255
• Local Counseling Services: (706) 857-0162
• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Georgia Chapter: https://www.madd.org/georgia

Legal and Regulatory Information

• Georgia Implied Consent Laws
• Georgia DUI Penalties for Drivers Under 21
• Chattooga County Traffic Ordinances