The Georgia State Patrol is reminding motorists to practice safe driving habits as they travel throughout the state this Labor Day weekend.
“Troopers and Motor Carrier Officers will be on patrol in full force for the upcoming 78-hour Labor Day holiday travel period this weekend,” said Colonel Mark W. McDonough, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. “They will focus their attention on speeders, unrestrained occupants, as well as distracted and impaired drivers,” he added. The patrols will take place from 6 p.m. on Friday, August 30, to 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 2.
Last year, troopers investigated 490 crashes, which resulted in 296 injuries. Eight of those were fatal crashes, killing eight people. Eight others were investigated by local agencies, bringing the holiday travel period fatality count to 18. In addition to crash investigations, troopers and motor carrier officers wrote 9,008 citations; 12,180 warnings; and arrested 332 motorists for driving under the influence.
“Motorists should expect heavier traffic this weekend, as most people use the extended weekend to take their final family trips before the summer ends,” said Colonel McDonough.
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind this holiday weekend:
- Obey the posted speed limit. When you exceed the speed limit, you reduce the amount of available time needed to avoid a traffic crash.
- Do not drive impaired. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, rideshare service, friend, or family member to help you get home safely.
- Buckle Up. Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seatbelt and that children are properly restrained in the appropriate child safety seats. Georgia law requires children under the age of eight to be in either a car seat or booster seat suitable for their age, weight, and height.
- Pay attention to the Road. Limit your distractions, and never use electronic devices to text or surf the web while driving. The Hands-Free Georgia Act prohibits all drivers from using hand-held cell phones while driving.
- Do not leave children and pets in hot cars. Regularly check the back seat and back floor area for children and animals, each time you exit your vehicle.
- Stay alert of your surroundings and show common courtesy to other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.
