The Georgia State Patrol has been out in force this holiday weekend around Northwest Georgia.  Here in Chattooga County, there have been quite a few traffic stops by state troopers and local law enforcement.  While a focus of law enforcement on any holiday is looking for impaired drivers, all of us need to remember a few tips, according to the Georgia State Patrol:

• Obey the posted speed limit. When you exceed the speed limit, you reduce the amount of available time needed to avoid a traffic crash.
• Do not drive impaired. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, rideshare service, friend, or family member to help you get home safely.
• Buckle Up. Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seatbelt and that children are properly restrained in the appropriate child safety seats. Georgia law requires children under the age of eight to be in either a car seat or booster seat suitable for their age, weight, and height.
• Pay attention to the road. Limit your distractions, and never use electronic devices to text or surf the web while driving. The Hands-Free Georgia Act prohibits all drivers from using hand-held cell phones while driving.

Last year, 10 people died in nine fatal crashes over the Labor Day weekend, according to the Georgia State Patrol. Troopers also investigated 523 crashes, which resulted in 288 injuries.

In addition to crash investigations, troopers and motor-carrier officers wrote 5,987 and 7320 warnings, and they arrested 244 motorists for driving under the influence.