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4 Traffic Fatalities, 311 DUI Arrests During Georgia's 2024 Thanksgiving

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 0:08 GMT by WTOC-TV
      Locales: Georgia, UNITED STATES

ATLANTA, GA - February 6th, 2026 - Georgia officials have released data revealing four traffic fatalities and 311 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday travel period (November 27th - December 1st). While authorities express gratitude the number of fatalities wasn't higher, the incidents highlight a persistent and concerning trend of impaired driving and traffic dangers during peak travel times. The data, released earlier today, is prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement, increased public awareness campaigns, and a deeper examination of the factors contributing to holiday traffic accidents.

Colonel Chris Lofton of the Georgia State Patrol emphasized the dedication of law enforcement. "Our troopers, alongside our local partners, put in countless hours patrolling Georgia's highways," he stated. "Four lives lost is still four too many, and we're committed to reducing this number through proactive policing and public education." The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) estimates 3.8 million vehicle trips occurred during the five-day holiday period, placing significant strain on the state's road infrastructure and increasing the potential for accidents.

A Pattern of Risk: Examining Holiday Travel Statistics

This year's statistics, while tragic, aren't isolated. Data from the past five years consistently show an uptick in both crashes and DUI arrests during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Memorial Day. In 2025, for example, the Thanksgiving period saw five fatalities and 335 DUI arrests. 2024's numbers represent a slight decrease in arrests, but the continued occurrence of fatalities is prompting a re-evaluation of current safety strategies. GDOT's historical data shows a direct correlation between increased travel volume and accident rates, suggesting that simply adding more cars to the road significantly increases risk.

Furthermore, analysis reveals a concerning trend: a rise in repeat DUI offenders. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) reports that approximately 25% of those arrested for DUI during the Thanksgiving period had prior convictions for the same offense. This points to a need for more robust rehabilitation programs and stricter penalties for repeat offenders.

Beyond Enforcement: Addressing the Root Causes

While increased patrols are undoubtedly effective in deterring impaired driving, experts argue that a multi-faceted approach is crucial to addressing the underlying causes of holiday traffic accidents.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: A renewed focus on responsible driving habits and the dangers of impaired driving is essential. Campaigns should leverage social media, television, and radio to reach a wider audience and emphasize the devastating consequences of driving under the influence - not just legal repercussions but the potential for causing serious injury or death.
• Technological Solutions: The implementation of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, can help mitigate the risk of accidents. GDOT is currently piloting a program to integrate real-time traffic data with navigation apps to alert drivers to congestion and potential hazards.
• Transportation Alternatives: Encouraging the use of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and designated drivers can reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road. Expanding public transportation options, especially in rural areas, remains a significant challenge.
• Enhanced Rehabilitation Programs: As noted by the GBI statistics, more effective and accessible rehabilitation programs for those convicted of DUI are necessary. These programs should focus on addressing the root causes of addiction and providing individuals with the tools they need to make lasting behavioral changes.
• Legislation Review: State legislators are considering proposals to strengthen DUI laws, including increased penalties for repeat offenders and mandatory ignition interlock devices for first-time offenders with high blood alcohol content.

Looking Ahead to Future Holidays

GDOT and the Georgia State Patrol are already planning for the upcoming Memorial Day and Fourth of July travel periods. Strategies include increased traffic enforcement, public service announcements, and the deployment of "High Occupancy Vehicle" (HOV) lanes to encourage carpooling. However, officials acknowledge that a long-term solution requires a collaborative effort involving law enforcement, transportation agencies, community organizations, and the public. The goal is not simply to increase arrests, but to create a culture of safety on Georgia's roads and ensure that everyone arrives at their destination safely.