The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and the Motor Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD) encourage motorists to exercise safe driving habits during the New Year’s holiday travel period. In an effort to reduce the number of crashes on Georgia roadways, State Troopers and MCCD officers will be on high visibility patrols on interstates and state roads. The 78-hour New Year’s holiday period began at 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 31, and ends at 11:59 P.M. on Sunday, January 3.
During the 2020 New Year’s holiday travel period, which was 30-hours long, the GSP worked 143 crashes that resulted in 71 injuries and two fatal crashes resulting in two fatalities. In addition, troopers and officers issued 5,083 citations, 7,275 warnings, and arrested 160 people for driving under the influence.
If an individual plans to include alcohol consumption in their holiday celebrations, make sure to plan for a sober designated driver by contacting a taxi or rideshare, a friend, or family member to help get home safely. Make these decisions before getting into the holiday spirit.
In addition to enforcing traffic laws, Troopers and Officers caution drivers to avoid becoming a distracted driver. The most important thing is to stay focused on the destination and surrounding drivers so that crashes do not ruin New Year’s festivities.
“Although this year’s New Year’s celebrations do not mirror those of last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, we want everyone to enjoy this holiday season with family and friends by driving sober, staying focused on the road, and obeying the traffic laws and executive orders of this state,” said Colonel Chris C. Wright, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
Along with the Georgia State Patrol, the Sandersville Police Department, Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are also urging drivers to designate a sober driver before heading out to holiday parties. If an individual plans on drinking, they should plan on not driving. Doing so could change the lives of passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers and passengers nearby.
Designated drivers should make sure to keep the promise of safety to all involved. They should stay hydrated with water and other non-alcoholic beverages and support other designated drivers. Take the role of designated driver seriously – lives depend on it.
Party with a Plan
Before ever heading out, it’s vital to plan ahead. Be honest – everyone knows if they will drink or not. Follow these ideas to ensure safety:
- Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even after only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely
- If an individual sees a drunk driver on the road, contact the Sandersville Police dispatch at 552-3038
- Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get them home safely