Falcons Michael Turner Arrested for DUI

Atlanta Falcons running back, Michael Turner, was arrested for driving while intoxicated and speeding in the early hours of Tuesday morning, according to National Football League official website{:target="_blank"}. Turner’s arrest came just hours after scoring a touchdown in the Falcons Monday night victory against the Denver Broncos. Turner was brought to Gwinnett County jail around 5 a.m. Turner was later released on a $2,179 bond.

Turner was reportedly arrested after being pulled over for speeding by a Gwinnett County police officer. The 30-year-old Turner is alleged to have been driving 97mph in a 65 mph zone on Interstate 85 just to the northeast of Atlanta. The arresting officer reportedly smelled alcohol on Turner and conducted a field sobriety test. Turner was arrested upon conclusion of the test. Falcons’ head coach, Mike Smith, neglected to state whether Turner would be suspended as a result of his actions following the game. “There are certain parameters that are set in place by the collective bargaining agreement and the NFL and the NFLPA,” Smith said in reports, indicating that there had not yet been a determination on whether the Falcons would take disciplinary action.

The Falcons star is only the latest to be arrested to DUI in what has seemingly become an epidemic around the league. Despite the league’s best efforts to prevent players from driving drunk—they offer a free car service for intoxicated players—there seems to be a new alcohol related arrest every other week. Stars such as Kenny Britt, Marshon Lynch, Juston Blackmon, and Nick Fairley were all arrested in the past offseason for driving under the influence. In 2009, then Browns receiver Donte’ Stallworth was arrested after hitting and killing a pedestrian under the influence. Despite growing concerns and harsher penalties by the league, some NFL players continue to disregard their own safety, as well as the safety of others.

Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous and can have catastrophic consequences. Car accidents that result from drunk driving often end in debilitating injury or death. If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver, you should contact a lawyer immediately. You may be able to file a lawsuit to recoup damages for any property damage, medical bills, or pain and suffering. The car accident attorneys at Morgan & Morgan understand the danger and damage drunk drivers can invoke and are committed to seeking maximum compensation on behalf of their injured clients. Fill out the form on the right to see if you are eligible to file a claim.