As travelers across Georgia prepare for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging motorists to make safety a priority by avoiding impaired and distracted driving, buckling up and practicing responsible driving behaviors as you travel to spend time with friends and family.
Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer travel season and is historically one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Troopers and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Officers will increase patrols statewide and focus this enforcement on speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belt violations, and other dangerous driving behaviors.
This year’s Memorial Day holiday travel period will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 22, and end Monday, May 25, at midnight. The travel period is 78 hours long.
During the 2025 Memorial Day holiday period, the Georgia State Patrol investigated 331 traffic crashes that resulted in 120 injuries and six traffic deaths. In addition to the traffic crash investigations, Troopers and CVE Officers arrested 400 people for DUI.
“Memorial Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country,” said Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, DPS Commissioner. “We want everyone celebrating the holiday weekend to do so responsibly and safely so that all Georgians and those visiting our state can return home to their loved ones, added Colonel Hitchens.”
Holiday Travel Safety Tips
- Never drive impaired — plan for a sober driver or alternate transportation.
- Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the roadway.
- Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all children are properly restrained.
- Obey posted speed limits and allow for extra travel time.
- Move over for emergency vehicles and roadside workers, as required by law.
According to AAA, 39.1 million people are projected to travel by car over the Memorial Day weekend, a slight jump over last year.
| Date | Worst Time | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, May 21 | 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | After 9:00 PM |
| Friday, May 22 | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Before 11:00 AM |
| Saturday, May 23 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Before 11:00 AM |
| Sunday, May 24 | Minimal Traffic Impact Expected | |
| Monday, May 25 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Before 10:00 AM |
SOURCE: INRIX
This is a press release from the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
