The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit had a productive and challenging New Year’s Eve as they ramped up efforts to ensure road safety across the county. Deputies focused on traffic enforcement, with an emphasis on Georgia’s Move Over Law and other traffic safety violations.
In total, deputies made 94 traffic contacts throughout the day, including 32 speeding violations, with drivers clocked at speeds of 111 mph and 94 mph on GA 365. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the driver traveling at 111 mph was clocked at 4:15 p.m.
Deputies also stopped 11 drivers for violating the Move Over Law, which requires motorists to either move over one lane or slow down when passing emergency vehicles or utility workers with flashing lights.
“Move Over Laws are crucial for the safety of law enforcement officers and first responders working on the roadside,” said Special Operations Sgt. Phillip Young. “Violations of this law can result in significant fines or jail time.”
In addition to enforcing the Move Over Law, deputies issued citations for other infractions, including hands-free violations, failure to wear seatbelts, and driving under the influence.
“Our goal is to maintain the safest roadways possible for both residents and travelers,” Young added. “We are dedicated to educating drivers on the importance of adhering to traffic laws, and reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on all roads in our county.”