Georgia’s roadways undergo maintenance upgrades and repairs every year. Ensuring the welfare of the thousands of motorists that travel through these construction areas, as well as the workers themselves, is paramount. Work Zone Safety Week serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in these areas.

Georgia DOT and 511GA recommend the following tips to mitigate the risk of being involved in a work zone related accident:
 

1. Reduce Speed - Obey the posted speed limits within the work zone and be prepared to adjust your speed as traffic patterns change. Speeding increases the risk of accidents.
2. Follow Signs & Signals - Pay attention to signs and traffic signals within the work zone. Follow the instructions provided, including lane closures and detours.
3. Avoid Distractions - Avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio.
4. Watch out for Workers & Equipment - Be aware of construction workers and equipment operating within the work zone. Exercise caution when passing by workers and give them plenty of space.
5. Expect the Unexpected - Be prepared for sudden changes in traffic flow and road conditions within the work zone. Avoid making abrupt maneuvers or sudden stops.
6. Plan Ahead with 511GA – Before heading out, use the 511GA app to check for any planned roadwork or construction projects along your route. Consider alternate routes if possible.

By embracing these tips and a proactive approach to work zone safety, you can help ensure that Georgia’s roads remain safe for all who use them. Download the 511GA app today to view roadway construction in your area.
 

As technology becomes more advanced, the threat that distracted driving poses on the motoring public increases. Every April, during Distracted Driving Awareness Month, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shines a light on the importance of remaining focused behind the wheel and the consequences that occur when we don’t.
511GA is joining NHTSA’s efforts by emphasizing the value of keeping your eyes on the road and equipping you with the best tips on how to eliminate distractions.  

What Exactly Is Distracted Driving?
Anything that removes or diverts a driver’s attention from the roadway is considered distracted driving. Cell phone usage, including text, talking and social media engagement, has become the most common distraction. However, these distractions can also be related to eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or even daydreaming.
Engaging in the activities listed above robs drivers of the crucial time needed to avoid close calls on the roadway. Most drivers underestimate the danger of multitasking while driving, which leads to deadly crashes. According to NHTSA, distracted driving killed 3,522 people in 2021. In addition, countless others suffered injuries that could have been prevented.

How To Avoid Distracted Driving 
As a driver, you play an essential role in keeping roadways safer. Use the following tips to help prevent distracted driving:
 

• Plan Ahead – Use the GPS services on the 511GA app to plan your route & set the directions BEFORE you begin your journey.
• Activate “Drive Mode” – Utilize the 511GA app’s drive mode to receive audio alerts along your route.
• Take Breaks – If you’re feeling tired or restless from your trip, find a safe location to pull over and get rest.
• Lead by Example – Practice the correct driving habits to influence the behavior of those in the car with you.
• Speak Up – If your driver is engaged in distracted driving, remind them to refocus on the roadway.

Double down on your commitment to roadway safety by visiting the NHTSA website to pledge not to drive while distracted.
 

Headed out for some exciting spring break fun?  Whether you’re headed to a beach getaway or just exploring a new location, arriving safely at your destination is the ultimate spring break goal!

As you hit the roadway, 511GA wants to ensure you’re equipped with a few spring break travel essentials, including vital safety tips and our comprehensive travel forecast. Remaining safe on the roadway should be a top priority and we’ve got you covered.
 
When To Travel: 511GA’s 2024 Spring Break Travel Forecast


 

• As you might expect, traffic is predicted to be heavy the weekend before spring break begins. Moderate congestion is expected from 12 - 7 p.m. on Fri., Mar. 29, Sat. Mar. 30 & Sun, Mar. 31.

 

• Georgia motorists can expect typical traffic on Metro Atlanta’s interstates during the first four days of spring break week, with moderate congestion taking place from 3 - 7 p.m. 

 

• Motorists heading back into the city during the latter half of the week should plan to run into heavier congestion. Spring break travel coupled with Easter weekend will make for slower travel times than usual.

 
How To Travel: Spring Break Travel Tips
 

• Avoid Distractions While Driving
  • Spring break fun can sometimes come with the temptation to text and drive. Remember to put your phone down while you’re behind the wheel. If you do need to send a text, pull over to a SAFE location first.
• Follow All Speed Limits & Traffic Laws
  • Speeding can increase the risk of an accident. Observe posted speed limits and follow all traffic rules and regulations.
  • Remember to be mindful of Georgia’s Move-Over law
• Stay Sober Behind the Wheel

• Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs is NEVER worth the risk. Designate a sober driver before you hit the roadway. If needed, count on alternate modes of transportation like rideshare.

• Utilize 511GA’s Travel Services
  • Download the free 511GA app and play your route in advance.
  • Motorists can call 511 for HERO or CHAMP to request assistance.
  • Call 511 24/7 for travel information and updates including incident alerts along your journey

 
Follow 511GA on Facebook and Twitter for more forecast updates.
 

In preparation for Severe Weather Preparedness Week (SWPW) Feb. 5 – 9, Georgia Department of Transportation’s 511GA service wants to ensure that all Georgia motorists are equipped to “weather” any storms that should come your way. SWPW presents an opportunity to educate ourselves on how to stay safe during inclement weather.
Flood Safety

• Avoid Floodwaters – Never attempt to walk or drive through any flooded areas.
• Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes.

Tornado Safety

• Create a Safety Plan – Designate a safe space in your home, such as a basement or interior room, in the event that you need to seek shelter during a tornado.
• Listen to Official Warnings – Take all tornado warning and sirens seriously. Move promptly to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you

Thunderstorm Safety

• Lightning Safety - Use caution if lightning is expected. Seek indoor shelter and avoid using electrical appliances.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit – Have an emergency kit with essentials like water, first aid items and a flashlight.

The most essential tip that each of these weather occurrences has in common is to STAY INFORMED. 511GA is a valuable resource for timely weather alerts and road condition updates. By dialing 511 or downloading the 511GA app you can access real-time information to assist with your travel plans.
By incorporating these safety tips into your routine and relying on 511GA, you can ensure the well-being of yourself and your loved ones, and weather any storm with confidence. 511GA operators are available to assist GA motorists 24/7.  

 

Whether you’re a motorist or a pedestrian, remaining aware of the surroundings on the road is essential when preventing incidents. The importance of pedestrian safety remains a shared responsibility and a key component in Georgia roadway safety. 

You can reinforce this shared responsibility during the month of October by taking part in Pedestrian Safety Month.

Take a look at how you can assist:

Avoid Speeding:
Reduce your speed near areas where pedestrians are likely to be present, such as neighborhoods and school zones. Slower speeds make it easier to react to unexpected situations.

Stay in Your Car & Wait for 511GA Assistance:
Drivers become pedestrians the moment they step outside of their cars. It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings once you exit your car, especially on busy roadways. If you’re in need of roadside assistance, remember to remain in your car to minimize your exposure to other passing motorists. Dialing 511 can connect you to HERO or CHAMP assistance. These trained professionals are equipped to handle emergencies on the highway and can provide guidance or assistance as needed. 

Pedestrian and Motorists Should Both Lookout for One Another:
a. Pedestrian Responsibility: Pedestrians should always use designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals and signs.
b. Motorist Responsibility: Motorists should exercise patience and caution when encountering pedestrians. Always yield the right-of-way when necessary and be prepared to stop.

For more information on how the Georgia Department of Transportation is leading the charge on pedestrian safety, take a second to view the “See and Be Seen” campaign here. Their mission is to usher Georgia’s roadways towards a future that includes zero roadway deaths.

You can join this mission. We can reduce accidents and create safer roads for all road users. Let's work together to ensure that our streets and highways are safe for everyone.
 

 























According to Operation Lifesaver, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every 3 hours in the United States. 511 Georgia (511GA) encourages you to help #StopTrackTragedies by participating in Rail Safety Week, Sept. 18-24, and implementing simple tips that can save lives.
 
Fact 1:
The average locomotive weighs about 400,000 pounds. This means that the ratio of a car to train is proportional to that of a soda can to car.
 
Fact 2:
It takes the average freight train traveling at 55 mph more than a mile to stop which means trains can’t stop fast enough to avoid a collision.
 
Those two facts alone should be more than enough for Georgia   motorists to take interest in being equipped with the proper rail safety education. 511GA is here to assist.
 
Here are few things to keep in mind:
 

5. If your vehicle ever stalls on the tracks, get out and get away, even if you don’t see a train.
5. You should cross train tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings and obey all warning signs and signals posted.
5. NEVER drive around lowered gates – It’s illegal and extremely dangerous.

 
The Georgia Department of Transportation understands the importance of railway safety and has formed the Railroad Safety Unit to identify, reduce, and eliminate hazards at railroad crossings in the state of Georgia. In addition, Georgia DOT’s Section 130 program evaluates and funds crossing safety improvements across the state. 511GA’s operators are available 24/7 to take reports on the malfunction of any railway equipment.
 
To do our part, the 511GA team will update some of our dynamic messaging signs to raise awareness during National Rail Safety Week. Be on the lookout at some of the railroad crossings in your area!
 
You can do your part too:
 
#StopTrackTragedies by taking the official Rail Safety Pledge here: https://oli.org/pledge/adults
 

Roadside Service Updates:

Since 2007, 511 Georgia (511GA) has been the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (Georgia DOT) courtesy travel program, providing information on traffic and congestion, as well as dispatching Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) and Coordinated Highway Assistance and Maintenance Program (CHAMP) to motorists on Georgia’s interstates.

While Georgia DOT’s’ HERO implements temporary modifications to its active patrol schedule overnight, 511 operators are always available to help with those requiring assistance on the road.
 
HERO’s new active patrol schedule effective June 16:

• Monday-Friday 5 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Saturday-Sunday 6 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

In addition to the temporary schedule modification, the HERO coverage area will also be temporarily modified and CHAMP will adjust routes to supplement HERO’s service.
 

• CHAMP actively patrols from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.

​​​
As always, our 511GA operators remain available 24/7 to assist motorists. 511GA operators can also contact first responder agencies to be dispatched to incidents. Motorists in need of assistance or reporting an incident should simply dial 511, using a mobile device hands-free in accordance with Georgia law.

Continue to follow us on Facebook, X, or 511ga.org for the latest updates. For full details on the temporary modifications, visit here.

The 16@95 Improvement Projects will provide infrastructure enhancements to the I-16 at I-95 Interchange and widen along the I-16 corridor from I-95 to I-516. The project benefits to motorists include: 

• Ease of congestion 
• Decrease of travel times 
• Enhancements in motorist safety and travel efficiency 

To navigate through the construction zones and stay updated on traffic conditions during the 16@95 Improvement Projects, motorists can make effective use of 511 Georgia. Here are some ways to utilize this valuable resource: 

• Dial 511: Call to access real-time traffic information, including but not limited to incidents and congestion by speaking with an operator. 
• Go to 511ga.org: Visit our website for current traffic volumes and customizable, personalized travel notifications with My511.  
• Use 511 in the Palm of your Hand: Download the 511 Georgia mobile app on Google Play or the App Store for convenient access to roadway alerts and more. 
• Follow Us!: Follow 511 Georgia on Facebook or X for further updates

 

Georgia Department of Transportation’s (Georgia DOT) Transform 285/400 Project is designed to help reduce congestion on the I-285/SR 400 interchange in metro Atlanta. By constructing new flyover ramps and collector-distributor lanes, travel on this interchange will be improved and safer for the motoring public in Georgia.

 

511 Georgia, the Georgia DOT’s free traveler program, is here to help you know before you go and be aware of current road conditions and closures. With our many tools and features, you’ll be able to stay ahead of the curve with new lane openings and updates from the Transform 285/400 project.

Resources

• I-285 Lane Closures
• Main Transform 285/400 Page
• Sign up for Alerts/News
• View Traffic Impacts

How you can use 511GA to prepare
      

---