Georgia State Troopers and Motor Carrier Officers will be on patrol in full force for the holiday travel period which started yesterday.

“Troopers will be focusing their attention on speeders, unrestrained occupants, as well as distracted and impaired drivers,” said Colonel Gary Vowell, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety. “We are dealing with unprecedented times within our state where the norm is not normal anymore, but the safety of our residents and visitors will always remain our top priority,” he added.

Last year, troopers reported nine fatal crashes and 10 fatalities during the 2019 holiday period statewide. GSP investigated seven of the fatal crashes which included eight deaths.

GSP said troopers investigated 523 crashes, which resulted in 288 injuries.

In addition to crash investigations, troopers and motor carrier officers wrote 5,897 citations; 7,320 warnings; and arrested 244 motorists for driving under the influence.