Georgia drivers warned about congestion, DUI enforcement ahead of July 4

Millions of people are expected to hit the road this holiday week, leading to safety warnings and DUI enforcement across Georgia.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Millions of Americans are expected to travel this week for Fourth of July celebrations. 

According to AAA, Wednesday is the busiest travel day of the year. This year, traffic is anticipated to potentially break previous records. More than 72 million people across the nation are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the holiday travel period, which runs from June 28 to July 6.

To avoid the worst of the congestion, AAA spokesperson Montrae Waiters advises postponing travel, particularly between noon and 6 p.m.

AAA has launched a new campaign titled “Crashes Hit Different When They Happen to You.” The campaign focuses on four critical areas of safe driving: seatbelt usage, speed, distracted driving and impaired driving.

“Make sure that you buckle up,” she said. “And folks, slow down. You know you’re going to get to your destination. Put those phones down. And we know that a lot of folks are going to be celebrating this holiday and they may celebrate before they get on the road because they’re just happy about getting to their destination. But driving impaired should never be an option.”

To make sure drivers are not driving under the influence, The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and local law enforcement agencies will continue to monitor the roads looking for those breaking the law as the Operation Zero Tolerance campaign continues.

Captain Maurice Raine, the Deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, says there’s a zero-tolerance policy regarding impaired driving.

“Zero tolerance means just that,” Raine said. “If you’re driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or greater, you will be arrested. The consequences are severe and can include hefty fines and increased insurance rates. Impaired driving will lead to jail time.”

Despite national inflation concerns, low gas prices have made road trips a viable option this year. Right now, gas in Georgia averages $2.92 per gallon, down from $3.32 during the same period last year and down five cents compared to last week. 

Waiters recommends getting a routine vehicle maintenance and packing an emergency kit before you hit the road. 

According to AAA, July 6 will be another busy and congested day on the road. Waiters suggests leaving before 11 a.m.

AAA is also offering its free towing program to impaired drivers until 6 a.m. Monday. If you need a ride, call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO.