A Gainesville man was charged with a series of traffic offenses after a Friday night crash that prompted the extended closure of the Exit 20 (Candler Road) southbound ramp from I-985.
HALL CO. SHERIFF’S OFFICE (HCSO) NARRATIVE:
“According to the preliminary investigation into the crash, Enrique Rodriguez Lerma, 47, exited the interstate and lost control of his vehicle, rolling several times and striking a cement traffic light pole. The force of the crash broke the light pole, bringing down the traffic lights at the intersection.
When Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies arrived…around 7 p.m., Rodriguez had left the crash scene. Deputies found Rodriguez on the ramp, but he attempted to run from them. Once they caught up with him, he attempted to fight with them. Ultimately, he was placed under arrest. Rodriguez was transported to the hospital for treatment prior to being booked at the Hall County Jail on the following offenses:
· Driving under the influence (DUI) – multiple substances
· Driving too fast for conditions
· Failure to maintain lane
· Required safety belt use
· Obstruction of an officer
Rodriguez posted a bond of $7,940 and was released from custody on Saturday, Dec. 21.
The ramp from the I-985 to Candler Road remained closed through the night while the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Georgia Power Company repaired the traffic pole and traffic lights. The roadway reopened around 6:15 a.m. Saturday.”
(Picture courtesy HCSO)