Published Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Be aware there are increased patrols on roadways

Editorial

We all need to be at our safety best when driving this month. An intensive statewide "Click It Or Ticket" campaign began across Georgia on Monday.

State officials say there will be around-the-clock enforcement aimed at saving lives and reducing injuries during the period between now and Thanksgiving weekend.

The word is patrols will be checking seat belt violators on interstate highways during the day, and there will be patrol checks on state and county roads at night.

While the promoted aim is to check for seat belt violations, no doubt there will be attention placed on other traffic violators -- from speeders, hazardous drivers and certainly driving under the influence.

All drivers should have fair warning -- you may be stopped on the interstate for a seat belt violation during the day and you could be stopped at roadblocks on our state and county roadways during the evening hours.

The holiday period is a heavy driving time. Too often there is an increase in accidents during this holiday season. Georgia officials say 136 could have been saved in 2009 if all drivers and passengers had been wearing seat belts. That warrants this safety campaign.

Drive carefully.