Labor Day Travel in Georgia: Safety Concerns and 85 DUI Arrests
ATLANTA — As Labor Day travel gets underway across Georgia, early reports indicate one traffic death and 85 DUI arrests in the first 12 hours of the holiday period.
The Georgia Department of Public Safety confirmed that a pedestrian lost their life overnight in Gwinnett County. By 6 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, authorities also recorded five injury-related crashes since the holiday travel period began at 6 p.m. on Friday. The traffic count will continue through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 7.
Additionally, two fatalities that won’t factor into the statewide traffic toll occurred in Northeast Georgia on Friday morning. James Johnson, 62, of Lavonia, died in a rear-end collision with a box truck at GA 365 and Demorest-Mt. Airy Highway. Meanwhile, 80-year-old Wayne Voyles of Hull succumbed to injuries from a wrong-way crash on Highway 29 North near Talley Crossing in Athens-Clarke County.
Increased Patrols
In light of these incidents, the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers have stepped up their patrols on interstates and secondary roads. Officers are primarily focusing on impaired driving, speeding, seat belt violations, and other unsafe behaviors.
“Labor Day weekend is a busy time on Georgia’s roadways. We encourage motorists to prioritize safety by buckling up, obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, and designating a sober driver if consuming alcohol,” stated Colonel William W. Hitchens, III, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
During the 2025 Labor Day travel period, GSP troopers investigated 359 crashes resulting in 238 injuries and 10 fatalities. Including incidents handled by local authorities, the death toll reached 15 statewide. Last year, troopers made 435 DUI arrests during the holiday period.
Officials continue urging motorists to wear seat belts, follow speed limits, put away their phones, and choose a sober driver when drinking. For roadway emergencies or to report an impaired or reckless driver, motorists are advised to call 911 or dial *GSP.