To ease traffic congestion statewide during the Labor Day holiday weekend, the Georgia Department of Transportation is suspending interstate highway construction-related lane closures from noon Friday, August 30 until 5 a.m. Tuesday, September 3. Lane closures are also limited on major state routes that directly serve key tourist and recreation centers.
 
“Labor Day weekend is the last holiday of the summer and we expect heavy traffic statewide,” said Georgia DOT State Construction Engineer John D. Hancock. “We are limiting construction and associated lane closures to make travel to Georgia’s mountains, beaches, parks and attractions easier and safer for all.”
 
The Department reminds travelers to exercise caution as crews may still work in proximity to highways; and safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures to remain in place. Also, incident management or emergency, maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary at any time on any route.
 
“During heavy travel holidays we typically see an increase in roadway fatalities,” Hancock said. “I urge drivers to slow down, drive alert and eliminate distractions. Buckle up, put down the cell phone and do not drive impaired. Focus on driving.”
 
Hands-free Cell Phone Law
Hands-free cell phone use is law when driving in Georgia. When drivers use cell phones and other electronic devices it must be with hands-free technology. It is illegal for a driver to hold a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support a phone. There are many facets to the new law. For details, visit https://www.gahighwaysafety.org/highway-safety/hands-free-law/.   
 
What to do for a breakdown or crash
In the event of a crash or breakdown, GDOT advises motorists to never get out of the car on a freeway, unless your life is in imminent danger. If possible, pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights and stay seat-belted in the vehicle with the doors locked.
 
Motorist Assistance Available
For HERO assistance in metro Atlanta or CHAMP service on highways in other regions of the state call 511, a free phone service that provides real-time statewide information about Georgia’s interstates and state routes, including traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather. Callers can transfer to operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.      
 
Move Over Law
GDOT reminds motorists that Georgia’s Move-over Law requires drivers to move-over one lane when a law enforcement, emergency vehicle or construction crew is on the side of the road and displaying flashing emergency lights. This includes moving over for Georgia DOT’s HERO and CHAMP units. If it is unsafe to move over, then slow down below the posted speed.
 
In 2018, 1,514 people died on Georgia’s roads - that’s an average of four deaths per day. The primary culprit was preventable crashes caused by unsafe behaviors. Pledge to DRIVE ALERT ARRIVE ALIVE. Buckle up – Stay off the phone and mobile devices – Drive alert. www.dot.ga.gov/DAAA. #ArriveAliveGA