Traditionally, Georgia motorists see additional law enforcement on the highways over the Labor Day weekend. That will not change this year.
The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reported that state troopers, sheriff’s deputies and police officers will be patrolling over the weekend with the goal of preventing crashes. These officers will specifically be looking to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the roads.
Labor Day weekend has been full of alcohol-related accidents in recent years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 38-percent of fatal traffic crashes during the 2018 Labor Day holiday travel period involved an alcohol-impaired driver.
Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Director Allen Poole said he wants to reduce these numbers and urges Georgians to make responsible decisions over the weekend.
“We know that there are going to be plenty of people on the road for one last trip before the end of summer, and we want everyone to get safely to their destination,” Poole said. “The only way to prevent people from dying in drunk driving crashes is for everyone to make the smart decision to not drink and drive this holiday weekend and every day of the year.”
GOHS and law enforcement officers said Georgians can take the following measures to help prevent drunk driving incidents:
- Plan a ride home with a sober driver before going out.
- If someone you know has been drinking, do not let them get behind the wheel.
- If you are hosting a party, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
- Always wear a seat belt – it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
“It is inexcusable that even one person has to die in a drunk driving crash because these type of crashes are completely preventable,” Poole said. “Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking is a selfish decision that can ruin not only your life but also the lives of others.”
