Middle Georgia law enforcement urges caution amid Thanksgiving travel

AAA projects that more than 71 million Americans will travel by car for Thanksgiving.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – AAA projects that more than 71 million Americans will travel by car for Thanksgiving. Law enforcement officers across Middle Georgia are urging increased precaution in light of the heavy traffic.

“That’s why we’re going to be out in full force,” said Sgt. Asher Gray, who works for Post 44 (Monroe & Bibb) of the Georgia State Patrol office in Forsyth. “We’re going to be stopping every violation we see.”

The record travel will mean increased police presence throughout the area. Lt. Scott Davis of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Division says obeying everyday rules of the road will stop you from being pulled over as you pass through.

“Make sure you’re buckled up and everybody is wearing their seatbelt for safety,” Davis said. “Make sure your children, infants and toddlers are in their proper seats.”

Davis asked that drivers be mindful that the speed limit decreases from 70 to 50 mph on the interstate when passing through construction zones. He encouraged travelers to have a good time with their loved ones, but more importantly to have a safe plan for making it home when the gathering is over.

“Be mindful to have a designated driver or use other resources available so that you’re not behind the wheel and jeopardize the safety of other people,” Davis said. 

Sgt. Gray says he and his team will not show leniency to cell phone usage and other forms of distracted driving this holiday season as it drastically increases the chances of fatalities. He added that increased traffic should serve as a reminder to be patient and avoid frustrated driving.

“Drive like the person next to you is your grandma,” Gray said. “You show them the same amount of respect as you would your grandmother, and I don’t think we’ll have many road rage incidents.”

While tickets are never fun, Gray hopes the GSP cracking down on traffic violations during the holiday season helps families navigate the road more safely.

“It’s going to slow people down and keep them from being distracted,” Gray said. “And we’re going to have a safe holiday.”