Georgia State Patrol Troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers will be out in force this week as the Thanksgiving travel period begins. The 102-hour travel window starts at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, and runs through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 30. Officials say the goal is to reduce crashes and keep the record number of holiday travelers safe on Georgia’s roads.

Last Thanksgiving, State Patrol investigated more than 680 crashes statewide, which resulted in 349 injuries and 17 deaths. Troopers also arrested nearly 500 impaired drivers and issued tens of thousands of citations and warnings. With even more drivers expected this year, enforcement will be stepped up across interstates and state routes.

AAA predicts 73 million people will travel by car for Thanksgiving — the highest number on record — and more than a million additional drivers compared to last year. The agency warns that traffic will be heaviest during peak travel times. The worst time to be on the road Wednesday is between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., with similar afternoon and evening congestion expected Friday through Sunday. The best times to travel each day are early in the morning before 11 a.m.

Drivers are urged to follow posted speed limits, avoid distractions, and make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained. Georgia law requires children under eight to ride in an approved car or booster seat. Motorists should also check their tires, lights, and wiper blades before heading out, and travel with basic emergency supplies.

Anyone needing roadside help can call 911 or *GSP. Holiday fatality updates will be posted throughout the weekend on the Department of Public Safety’s social media pages.