APD provides tips for safe driving on New Year’s

ALBANY — At the Albany Police Department, Public Information Officer Phyllis Banks provided safety advice for those taking to the roads for New Year celebrations. The information ranged from the importance of a designated driver, defensive driving, abiding by the hands-free law, seatbelt safety and more.

Banks said the APD’s main message to residents is to “celebrate, but safely.”

Have a designated driver

“Having a designated driver is very important during this time because we want everybody to celebrate safely but also return home safely,” Banks said. “We encourage people to find a designated driver; if you choose to go to a celebration bringing in the new year, make sure that you have a designated driver. Do not take the keys, give the keys to someone else.”

Banks added that the department has “seen a lot of fatalities” during past New Year celebrations with drivers who were under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, there were 26 traffic fatalities over the holiday period, one of which was from Colquitt County, and 333 injuries. Georgia State Troopers also arrested 285 people for driving under the influence and investigated 700 traffic crashes. The troopers issued 15,888 warnings and 9,978 citations.

What to do if you notice a drunk driver

“If you see somebody weaving on the road or anything that may detect that somebody’s under the influence, try to drive in a defensive manner,” Banks said. “Stay back a little bit, maybe two cars back, and make sure you’re just keeping an eye on that individual, so they don’t make any sudden moves.”

Banks advised that people can call the dispatch non-emergency number at (229) 431-2132 if they suspect someone is driving under the influence.

Use hands-free devices when on the road

“When it comes to distracted driving, try to avoid using your cellphone while you’re driving,” Banks said. “We all know that a law was passed where you can be fined for driving (and) using your phone — especially if it causes an accident, which may lead to a fatality.”

Banks said that although local traffic court is responsible for setting fines for violations, officers will still ticket violators.

Use a seatbelt and properly-installed car seats

“We’ve all heard ‘Click it or Ticket’, and that message rings loudly during the holiday that’s coming up,” Banks said. “Make sure when you’re driving you are wearing your seatbelt. Most importantly, make sure that if you have a child in your car, that that child is in the proper car seat, the car seat is restrained properly and that you’re using the car seat when that child is in the car. We have to take care of our little ones. Making sure that car seats are installed properly; that’s a big one. And making sure they’re in those car seats can keep them safe.”

The APD and Albany Fire Department both have programs in place to teach proper car seat installation. Banks said she isn’t sure of their availability ahead of the new year, but residents are welcome to call both agencies for assistance.