As thousands of Georgians prepare to hit the roads for the unofficial end-of-summer Labor Day weekend, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) is issuing a stern warning: expect a significant increase in law enforcement presence with a focus on driver safety. The 78-hour holiday travel period kicks off this Friday, August 29, at 6:00 p.m., and concludes Monday, September 1, at 11:59 p.m.

Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Officers will deploy high-visibility patrols across interstates and secondary roads, targeting impaired drivers, speeders, seatbelt violations, and distracted or unsafe driving practices.

“The Labor Day weekend marks the last holiday before summer’s official end. The Georgia Department of Public Safety urges motorists to prioritize safety by buckling up, obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, and designating a sober driver if consuming alcohol,” stated Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety.

The urgency of this message is underscored by last year’s sobering statistics. During the previous Labor Day holiday travel period, GSP Troopers investigated over 550 crashes, resulting in nine fatal crashes with 13 fatalities and more than 200 injuries. Including local law enforcement agencies, the statewide toll reached 16 fatal crashes and 20 fatalities. Troopers also made over 480 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI).

“We want everyone to enjoy their holiday celebrations this weekend, but safe driving should be your top priority on the way to your destination,” Colonel Hitchens added. “If you need emergency assistance while traveling in Georgia, please don’t hesitate to call 911 or *GSP.”

To help ensure a safe journey for all travelers, DPS offers the following critical tips:

Prioritize Safe Driving Practices:

Observe Posted Speed Limits: Speed reduces reaction time and increases crash severity.
Obey All Traffic Laws and Signals: These exist for your safety.
Do Not Drive Impaired: Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, taxi, or call a friend/family member.
Buckle Up, Every Time: Ensure all occupants, especially children, are properly restrained in seatbelts or age-appropriate child safety seats (children under eight years old are required to be in a car or booster seat).
Avoid Distractions: Refrain from activities that take your focus off the road, including texting while driving. Georgia’s Hands-Free Act prohibits using hand-held cell phones while driving.

Prepare for Your Journey:

Be Well-Rested and Alert: Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as impaired driving.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Check tires, wipers, fluids, and service your cooling system to prevent breakdowns.
Plan Your Route: Use a map or GPS and know your exits to avoid last-minute, dangerous lane changes.
Leave Early and Avoid Risks: Allow for potential delays and do not drive when tired, upset, or ill.
Show Courtesy: Be mindful of other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Share the Road with Large Trucks:

Maintain Following Distance: Large trucks require significantly more distance to stop.
Be Aware of Blind Spots: If you cannot see a truck driver’s mirrors, they cannot see you.
Avoid Abrupt Lane Changes: Do not cut in front of large trucks.

To help motorists plan their travel and avoid peak congestion, here are the anticipated best and worst travel times, according to INRIX:

Date Best Travel Time Worst Travel Time
Friday, Aug. 29 Before 12:00 PM 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday, Aug. 30 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, Aug. 31 Before 11:00 AM 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Monday, Sept. 1 Before 12:00 PM 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

The Department of Public Safety will provide updates on its holiday traffic enforcement count throughout the weekend on its official social media platforms. Motorists are encouraged to stay informed and drive safely.