A Sandy Springs police officer sustained serious injuries with broken bones late Saturday night after being struck by an unmanned motorcycle on GA-400 northbound near Hammond Drive. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. when motorcyclist Riad I. Ahmed, allegedly driving under the influence at speeds exceeding 100 mph, lost control of his vehicle and was ejected. The riderless motorcycle continued forward, striking the patrol officer who was responding to an earlier crash scene, as well as the vehicle from the original accident.

Both the officer and Ahmed were hospitalized and underwent surgery, with both reported in stable condition Sunday afternoon according to Sandy Springs Police Sgt. Leon Millholland. The officer was working the scene of a previous crash when the secondary collision occurred. Ahmed faces multiple serious charges including DUI, reckless driving, serious injury by motor vehicle, move over law violation, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, failure to maintain lane, suspended registration, instructional permit violation, and open container violation. The Georgia State Patrol continues investigating the crash circumstances.

Location and Infrastructure

GA-400 northbound past Hammond Drive represents a heavily trafficked corridor through Sandy Springs, connecting metro Atlanta's northern suburbs to the city center. This section of the highway experiences high-speed traffic flow, particularly during evening hours, with multiple lanes and frequent merge points. The Hammond Drive area serves as a major interchange with significant commercial and residential development nearby, including the Perimeter Center business district.

The location where the crash occurred is known for its traffic volume and has previously seen accidents requiring emergency response. Highway infrastructure in this area includes standard lane markings, overhead lighting, and emergency shoulder space where first responders typically position vehicles when responding to incidents. The move over law specifically addresses the need for drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching emergency vehicles with activated lights on Georgia highways.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Georgia law, drivers involved in accidents have specific rights and obligations, particularly when impairment or reckless driving is involved. The state's move over law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-16) requires drivers to move over one lane when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights, or reduce speed if moving over isn't possible. Violation carries fines and potential license points.

DUI-related crashes involving serious injury constitute felony charges under Georgia Code § 40-6-394, with penalties including significant prison time, fines, and license suspension. Injured parties may pursue civil claims for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Georgia's statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the accident date. Insurance considerations include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which becomes crucial when dealing with impaired drivers who may lack adequate coverage. Legal counsel should be consulted promptly to preserve rights and evidence. 

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Sandy Springs Police Department: (770) 551-6900
• Sandy Springs Fire & Emergency Services: 911
• Northside Hospital Sandy Springs: (404) 851-8000

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT): 511ga.org
• Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety: gahighwaysafety.org
• Sandy Springs Traffic Division: (770) 551-6915

Support Services:

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Georgia: madd.org/georgia
• Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program: (404) 657-1956
• Georgia Legal Aid: georgialegalaid.org

Legal References:

• Georgia Traffic Laws: O.C.G.A. Title 40
• Georgia Move Over Law: O.C.G.A. § 40-6-16
• Georgia DUI Laws: O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391 through 40-6-394