In Georgia, the number of travelers driving this holiday is expected to increase by 3.3 percent, while air travel is expected to rise by 1.2 percent. Others means of transportation — such as by bus or by rail — is projected to see a 14 percent increase.
Authorities statewide are cracking down on drunken drivers and on motorists who are not wearing seat belts as part of the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Troopers say their patrols will include an increased focus on a new state law that mandates everyone in pick-up trucks wear seat belts.
“Reducing the number of crashes involving speed, alcohol and seat belt violations will save many lives each year in Georgia,” Col. Mark McDonough, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety, said in a news release. “That’s why we patrol – to save lives.”
“Please make sure everyone is properly restrained, especially children,” McDonough added. “No one knows when a traffic crash will occur but studies have repeatedly shown that being properly restrained in a motor vehicle is the best protection to avoid seriously injury or death when a crash occurs.”
The increased patrols kick off Wednesday evening and run through Sunday.