ATLANTA, Ga. — Georgia State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols statewide as Christmas and New Year’s travel begins.
Troopers will conduct high-visibility enforcement on interstates and state routes during two holiday travel periods: Dec. 24–28 for Christmas and Dec. 31–Jan. 4 for New Year’s.
“Troopers and officers remain committed to enforcing traffic laws and stopping unsafe driving behaviors,” said Col. William W. Hitchens III. “Make safety your top priority on Georgia’s roadways.”
Last year, nearly 200 crashes occurred during the Christmas travel period in Georgia, resulting in five fatalities. Five more people died during the New Year’s holiday.
Safe and sober
December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. The American Automobile Association (AAA) and Mother’s Against Drunk Driving urge drivers to plan sober rides and never get behind the wheel impaired. Troopers warn impaired drivers will be arrested.
Hitchens also reminds motorists to:
- Obey Georgia’s hands-free law
- Follow posted speed limits
- Buckle up and properly secure children under age eight
- Move over and slow down for stopped vehicles
- Report aggressive or impaired drivers to 911 or *GSP (*477)
With more drivers on the road, troopers say simple choices — driving sober, staying alert, and following the law — can prevent crashes and save lives this holiday season.
