COLUMBUS, Georgia (WRBL) – The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety is preparing to reduce traffic deaths, drink driving and speeding ahead of Labor Day weekend. Over a dozen authorities from central and western Georgia and eastern Alabama converged on Monday before setting out on both sides of the river in a joint effort to make roads safer.
1,797. The number of road fatalities in 2021 across the state of Georgia, according to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.
“Slow down, buckle up, don’t drink and drive. And for heaven’s sake put your phone down while you’re behind the wheel.”
Powell Harrelson – Law Enforcement Coordinator, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
Cell phones continue to be a major problem when it comes to distracted drivers.
“The law says you can’t touch it or it can’t touch any part of your body while operating your vehicle. So put it in the console, lock it up and put it in the glove box.”
Powell Harrelson – Law Enforcement Coordinator, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
Hands across the Border is Georgia’s way to reduce traffic-related deaths. Roadblocks will be imposed in every single Georgia border state, starting here on the Alabama-Georgia line.
“Everyone comes together, we help each other. By the workday, you’ll see numerous roadside checks in multiple jurisdictions… and they’re successful. We’re stepping up, everyone coming together, working together to have a big law enforcement presence.”
Powell Harrelson – Law Enforcement Coordinator, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
In the 32nd year of border crossings, they want to keep drunk drivers off the road.
“If you’re drinking, call someone to pick you up, get an Uber, don’t drink and drive. I mean, it’s just that simple.”
Powell Harrelson – Law Enforcement Coordinator, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that more than 40% of fatal traffic accidents during the 2021 Labor Day holiday weekend involved intoxicated drivers whose blood alcohol concentration was nearly twice the legal limit.
A heavy police presence is seen in various areas of Columbus tonight to keep Georgia and Alabama streets safer. Agencies from as far afield as Bulter and Americus came to help.