As the busy summer travel season kicks off with the Memorial Day holiday, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding motorists to prioritize safety and plan their trips carefully. Troopers and officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols on interstates, state routes, and local streets throughout the long weekend, focusing on impaired driving and other traffic violations that could lead to accidents. The 78-hour holiday travel period begins this evening at 6 PM and concludes on Monday, May 26th, at 11:59 PM.

“We want everyone to enjoy this holiday weekend with family and friends by focusing on your driving behavior and minimizing distractions that could lead to serious or even fatal consequences,” stated Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Last year’s Memorial Day holiday saw Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Troopers issuing over 14,000 citations, making over 500 DUI arrests, and investigating over 500 crashes, resulting in over 250 injuries and eight fatalities. The total number of fatalities investigated by GSP and local law enforcement reached eleven. The DPS urges drivers to be vigilant, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

With a projected surge in travelers this year, drivers should expect heavier traffic congestion. AAA estimates that 87% of Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home by car this Memorial Day weekend, marking the highest travel volume since 2005. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys, and prioritize safe driving practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day holiday weekend.