Jarrell Urges Safety on Roads This Christmas

Local and state law enforcement are warning people to be careful on what is expected to be a busy holiday travel weekend.

Toccoa Police Chief Tim Jarrell said people need to keep safety at the top of their minds when hitting the roadways during the holidays and all year long.

“First of all, we would like to remind everyone to wear their seat belt, be mindful of their driving habits, leave in plenty of time to get to their destinations,” said Jarrell.

He said other local and state law enforcement would be out as well, patrolling, along with Toccoa Police.

“If you are going to enjoy the holiday season with an alcoholic beverage, we strongly advise you to find a designated driver,” said Jarrell.

Meanwhile, the Georgia State Patrol is also making final preparations for the Christmas holiday travel period. The Christmas holiday travel period will begin on Friday at 6 p.m. and end at midnight on Monday, December 26, for a total of 78 hours.

Last year, troopers investigated 443 traffic crashes over the Christmas travel period that resulted in 242 injuries and six fatalities.

Georgia Department of Public Safety Commissioner Colonel Mark W. McDonough says state troopers know from past experience that speed, alcohol, and failing to use seat belts are the primary contributing factors in fatal crashes.

During the Christmas holiday travel period, Georgia State Troopers will also team up with law enforcement officials from across the state for “Operation Zero Tolerance”, a high visibility enforcement campaign, which targets impaired drivers.

During last year’s Christmas holiday period, 175 arrests were made for driving under the influence by state troopers.