URGENT UPDATE: Georgia is reeling from a devastating Thanksgiving holiday period, which saw a shocking 12 fatalities and more than 422 DUI arrests across the state. From November 26 to 30, officials reported a troubling wave of traffic incidents, including 10 fatal crashes, as families traveled for the holiday.
According to the Georgia State Patrol, troopers responded to over 498 crashes, resulting in approximately 236 injuries. The numbers paint a grim picture of holiday travel, prompting officials to stress the importance of safety on the roads.
During this critical period, law enforcement made more than 23,000 traffic stops and issued over 17,200 warnings. Among these, 11,249 citations were handed out, including 6,200 for seatbelt violations and 680 for distracted driving. The statistics serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with impaired and reckless driving.
Prominent voices are calling for change. Bob Nulman, a national ambassador for Mothers Against Drunk Driving and a father who lost his son to a drunk driver in 1987, urged motorists to plan ahead and avoid driving under the influence. “Impaired driving is a serious and preventable danger,” he stated, emphasizing the need for awareness.
Authorities across Albany, Atlanta, DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Glynn counties reported traffic fatalities during the holiday, highlighting the pervasive issue of road safety. The Georgia Department of Public Safety has indicated that these figures are preliminary and may be updated as investigations continue.
As families mourn their loved ones and communities grapple with the aftermath, the urgency for safer driving practices is clearer than ever. With holiday travel expected to continue, officials are urging all drivers to remain vigilant.
As we look ahead, the focus remains on reducing these tragic statistics in future travel periods. Authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible driving, and further updates are anticipated as investigations unfold. Share this urgent message to promote road safety during the upcoming holiday season.
