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Georgia Department of Public Safety reports 21 traffic deaths over holiday weekend

A Georgia State Trooper investigates an accident in an undated file photo. (Georgia Department of Public Safety)

A Georgia State Trooper investigates an accident in an undated file photo. (Georgia Department of Public Safety)

Posted Friday, July 8, 2022 2:58 pm

ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Public Safety released a preliminary report Friday indicating there were 21 traffic fatalities across the state over the 78-hour Independence Day holiday travel period. The holiday period began Friday, July 1, at 6 p.m., and ended at 11:59 p.m., Monday, July 4.

In addition to fatal crashes, state troopers investigated more than 390 traffic crashes statewide resulting in over 200 injuries. During the long holiday weekend, state officers arrested more than 370 individuals for driving under the influence.

“Impaired driving is one of the leading contributing factors in the majority of fatal crashes troopers investigate during holiday travel periods,” said Col. Chris Wright, Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety. “We cannot stress enough the importance for drivers to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, drive the posted speed limit, wear a seat belt, and don’t drive distracted.

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Georgia, Traffic

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