The Georgia Department of Public Safety urged motorists on May 18 to prioritize safety during the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend by avoiding impaired and distracted driving, wearing seat belts, and practicing responsible behaviors while traveling.
Memorial Day weekend is considered one of the busiest travel periods in Georgia and marks the start of the summer travel season. To address increased traffic, Georgia State Patrol troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers will increase patrols statewide. They will focus enforcement efforts on speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belt violations, and other unsafe behaviors.
The Memorial Day holiday travel period begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 22 and ends at midnight on Monday, May 25. Last year during this period, Georgia State Patrol investigated 331 traffic crashes resulting in 120 injuries and six deaths. Troopers and CVE officers also arrested 400 people for driving under the influence.
“Memorial Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country,” said Colonel William W. Hitchens III, DPS Commissioner. “We want everyone celebrating the holiday weekend to do so responsibly and safely so that all Georgians and those visiting our state can return home to their loved ones,” Hitchens said.
Officials provided several safety tips for travelers: never drive impaired; avoid distractions; always wear seat belts; obey speed limits; allow extra travel time; and move over for emergency vehicles as required by law. According to AAA projections cited in the release, about 39.1 million people are expected to travel by car over Memorial Day weekend—a slight increase from last year.
Traffic analysts indicated that peak congestion times include Thursday afternoon through early evening hours on Friday before noon or after evening hours are suggested as better times for road trips.
As communities prepare for gatherings across Georgia this holiday weekend, officials concluded with well wishes for a safe observance honoring those who gave their lives in service.
