Georgia Sees 9 Traffic Fatalities Over Labor Day

GEORGIA — Traffic crashes across Georgia during the Labor Day holiday travel period resulted in nine traffic deaths, with eight being investigated by Troopers, the Georgia Department of Public Safety said. This year, the holiday travel period was 78-hours long. It began at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2.

Statewide, Georgia State Troopers investigated 523 traffic crashes that resulted in 288 injuries and eight fatalities. In addition to the traffic crash investigations, 244 people were arrested for driving under the influence, while 5,897 citations and 7,320 warnings were issued. Troopers also issued over 600 citations under the Hands Free Georgia law.

Gordon County Sheriff's Office reported one traffic death during the holiday period. Other cities and counties that Georgia State Patrol troopers reported deaths in include Cartersville, Dalton, Gainesville, Manchester, Swainsboro, Albany and Valdosta.

Last year, troopers investigated 490 crashes, which resulted in 296 injuries. Eight of those were fatal crashes, killing eight people. In addition to crash investigations, troopers and motor carrier officers wrote 9,008 citations; 12,180 warnings; and arrested 332 motorists for driving under the influence.

Here are travel tips to keep in mind:

• 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 seat belt 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.
• Do not leave children and pets in hot cars. Regularly check the back seat and back floor area for children and animals, each time you exit your vehicle.
• Stay alert of your surroundings and show common courtesy to other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.