The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and Motor Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD) urges everyone to celebrate the Independence Day holiday responsibly. This year, the holiday travel period is 102 hours long and began yesterday evening  and ends at midnight on the Fourth of July.
Last year’s holiday period was 78 hours long. Troopers and motor carrier officers issued more than 9,000 citations, over 8,400 warnings, and made 370 DUI arrests. Troopers also investigated nearly 400 traffic crashes resulting in more than 200 injuries and 11 fatalities, with local law enforcement agencies investigating ten fatalities.

“This Fourth of July weekend is expected to set a record for the number of people traveling by vehicle to spend time with family and friends celebrating the holiday,” said Colonel Christopher C. Wright, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. “Holiday celebrations should be safe and fun. To stay safe this weekend, motorists should practice safe driving habits and follow posted speed limits, use appropriate safety restraints, pay attention to road conditions, choose a designated driver or rideshare if you plan to drink, and put the phone down while driving. Pack your patience and avoid potential road rage incidents by being patient and courteous to other drivers.”