Offenses Against Public Order; the punishment for the offense of obstructing highways, streets, sidewalks, or other public passages; increase

Higher penalties and damages for road blockers

In Georgia, blocking a highway or street carries a high and aggravated misdemeanor, a more serious misdemeanor charge. Blocking a sidewalk or other public passage carries a regular misdemeanor. Both offenses require intentional or reckless blocking without legal authority that makes passage impossible without unreasonable inconvenience or danger. The person must also fail or refuse to clear the blockage after a reasonable official request or police officer's order. People harmed by an obstruction offense can seek damages from the offender, in addition to fines, penalties, or restitution.