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The Georgia Department of Transportation and 511GA are proud to join transportation and public safety partners nationwide in recognizing Crash Responder Safety Week, November 2–6, 2026, a national effort to raise awareness about protecting those who respond to incidents on our roadways.
 
Every day, responders across Georgia, including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, towing and recovery professionals, and HERO and CHAMP patrollers, work along busy roadways to assist motorists, manage incidents, clear travel lanes, and help keep traffic moving safely. Their work often takes place just feet away from moving traffic, making driver awareness especially important.
 
This year’s national theme, “Slow Down, Move Over. Lives are on the Line!”, reminds motorists that their actions can help protect those working along Georgia’s roadways. For 511GA, this year’s observance also carries the message “Their Legacy, Our Lesson.”

As part of the campaign, 511GA is commemorating the 15th anniversary of the passing of Spencer Pass, the first HERO patroller to lose his life in the line of duty, and honoring Frank Ingram, founder of Ingram Towing. Through a special video featuring reflections from their families and colleagues, we honor their service and remind motorists of the importance of protecting responders working along our roadways. The video will be available on Tuesday, 11/3.

How You Can Help Keep Responders Safe

• Slow Down and Move Over: Reduce your speed and give responders space when approaching flashing lights or roadside activity.
• Stay Alert: Eliminate distractions and remain aware of responders, vehicles, and changing traffic conditions.
• Plan Ahead with 511GA: Check 511GA.org or the 511GA app for real-time incidents, closures, and traffic information before you travel.

• Share the Message: Help raise awareness by sharing Crash Responder Safety Week messages with family, friends, and fellow motorists from 511GA’s X and Facebook pages.

Halloween weekend is creeping up, and motorists should prepare for increased traffic across metro Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Whether you're heading out for haunted attractions, fall festivals, or a night of trick-or-treating, don't let unexpected delays haunt your Halloween plans.

The 511GA Halloween Travel Forecast runs from October 28 through November 1, 2026, providing travelers with insights to help plan ahead and navigate safely during one of the busiest fall weekends of the year.
 

What to Expect for Halloween Travel:

• Leading up to the weekend, expect typical traffic on Wednesday, October 28, and Thursday, October 29, from 3 - 7 p.m.
• Be advised of potential heavy traffic on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, from 12 - 8 p.m. Drivers should plan for an additional 30 to 45 minutes of travel time.
• Travel should return to light traffic conditions on Sunday, November 1.

• Slow down and watch for trick-or-treaters and pedestrians.
• Avoid distractions and stay focused on the road.
• Never drive impaired.
• Yield to pedestrians and use caution at intersections and crosswalks.
• Be prepared for heavier traffic and possible delays.

As an added reminder, Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, meaning clocks will "fall back" one hour. Earlier sunsets and reduced visibility can make it more difficult to see pedestrians, so drivers should use extra caution and remain alert, especially in neighborhoods and areas with Halloween activities.

Plan Ahead with 511GA:
Expecting a busy Halloween weekend? Before you hit the road for some spooky fun, visit 511GA.org or download the free 511GA app to check real-time traffic conditions and potential delays. For real-time traffic information and updates, visit 511GA.org, download our mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X. No matter where your Halloween plans take you, 511GA is here to help keep your travels more treats than tricks and help you plan ahead with confidence!

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Pedestrian incidents remain a serious concern on roadways nationwide, with thousands of people injured or killed each year.
 

This October, 511GA joins transportation partners across the country in recognizing Pedestrian Safety Month and raising awareness around safe walking and driving. Everyone plays a role in reducing the risk of incidents for people on foot. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable users on Georgia’s roads. Crashes can happen quickly when both drivers and pedestrians are distracted. Staying alert and making simple safety choices can help prevent serious injuries.
 
When you are walking or driving near crosswalks, intersections, or sidewalks, remember these important safety tips:

•  Stay alert and avoid distractions.
• Use crosswalks whenever available and obey pedestrian signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking or running at dusk or after dark.
•  As a driver, always slow down in areas where pedestrians are present.
•  Never pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk
•  Be extra cautious in school zones, neighborhoods, and transit areas.

This Pedestrian Safety Month, remember: Stay alert. Stay visible. Stay safe. At 511GA, we’re committed to helping all road users travel safely by sharing real‑time traffic information, roadway conditions, and incident updates across Georgia. Visit 511GA.org, download the 511GA app, or dial 511 to stay informed and know before you go.

Football season is here, bringing game days, tailgates, watch parties, and increased traffic around stadiums and popular destinations across Georgia. Whether motorists are heading to the stadium, gathering with friends, or simply traveling through game-day traffic, 511GA can help them prepare before kickoff.
 
Increased traffic surrounding major sporting events can quickly impact travel times. A little preparation can make the difference between arriving before kickoff and spending the first quarter sitting in traffic. Before hitting the road, motorists are encouraged to check 511GA for real-time traffic conditions, incidents, construction, and other information that may impact their trip.
 
The 511GA Game Plan
Just like any successful team, a successful trip starts with the right game plan:
 
1st Down: Check Before You Leave
Before heading out, motorists can visit 511GA.org or use the 511GA mobile app to check current roadway conditions. Traffic cameras, incidents, construction, closures, and travel times can give drivers a clearer picture of what they may encounter along their route.
 
2nd Down: Plan Your Route
Game-day traffic can create heavier congestion near stadiums, entertainment districts, and major interstate corridors. Motorists should plan their route in advance, allow additional travel time, and consider alternate routes when necessary.
 
3rd Down: Need Help? Call 511
Unexpected situations can happen on the road. Motorists can dial 511 to connect with a 511GA operator for travel information and assistance. Operators are available 24/7/365 to help motorists access the information they need while traveling Georgia’s roadways.
 
Touchdown: Get Home Safely
The game may be over, but the travel plan is not complete until everyone makes it home safely. Post-game traffic can create additional congestion as thousands of fans leave stadiums, restaurants, tailgates, and watch parties at the same time.
 
Put 511GA in Your Starting Lineup
From Friday night lights and college football Saturdays to professional football Sundays, 511GA provides motorists with resources to help them make informed travel decisions throughout football season. No matter which team wins on the field, arriving safely is the most important victory. Let 511GA help you create the perfect game plan before kickoff and get home safely after the final whistle. For real-time travel information, visit 511GA.org, download the 511GA mobile app, or dial 511.

The Labor Day Holiday Weekend is approaching, and it’s important to be prepared for heavier traffic conditions. The 511GA Labor Day Holiday Travel Forecast runs from September 2 - 8, 2026, and provides insights on how to navigate your holiday travel.

What to Expect for Labor Day Travel: 

• Leading up to the weekend, expect typical traffic on Wednesday, September 2, and Thursday, September 3, from 3 - 7 p.m. 

• Be advised of potential heavy traffic on Friday, September 4, from 12 - 8 p.m., and Saturday, September 5, from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.  

• Travel should return to normal traffic on Sunday, September 6, and Monday, September 7. 

Safety Tips for Labor Day: 

• Buckle up and ensure all passengers are secure 

• Avoid distractions  

• Move over or slow down for first responders, HERO, CHAMP, and tower vehicles 

• Keep a safe following distance 

• Be prepared and plan for delays 

Enjoy your holiday break, 511GA operators are on duty 24/7 even through the holiday to provide real-time updates and keep you moving safely. For real-time traffic information and updates, visit 511ga.org, download our mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X.  No matter where your Labor Day plans take you, 511GA is here to help you plan ahead and travel with confidence.  

Every time you approach an intersection, one simple decision can make all the difference: Stop on Red.
 

During Stop on Red Week, 511GA joins transportation agencies across the country in reminding motorists that obeying traffic signals is one of the easiest ways to help prevent crashes and save lives. Running a red light puts everyone at risk, including other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and passengers. Stop on Red Week was established to raise awareness about the dangers of red-light running and encourage safer driving habits at intersections.
 
Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or traveling across Georgia, remember these important intersection safety tips:

• Always come to a complete stop at red lights before proceeding.
• Avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone while driving.
• Slow down as you approach intersections and be prepared for changing traffic signals.
• Look both ways before entering an intersection, even when the light turns green.
• Never try to "beat the light." A few extra seconds are always worth your safety.

The start of a new school year brings fresh excitement and movement to Georgia, and 511GA is here to help you stay prepared. As students, families, and commuters transition from summer break to school-day routines, traffic may become heavier on roads statewide.

Staying informed about road conditions can help you plan a smoother, stress-free trip this back-to-school season.

Safety Tips:

• Check 511GA before leaving: Visit 511GA.org, use the mobile app, or call 511 for real-time traffic updates and incident information.
• Avoid distractions: Keep your attention on the road, especially during peak morning and afternoon travel times.
• Stay alert for pedestrians: Watch for individuals walking or biking near schools and crossings.
• Watch for stopping buses: It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus. Stay alert for buses making frequent stops during your drive.

Atlanta hosted the World Cup from June 15th to July 15th, placing Georgia in the spotlight as a major host city and welcoming fans from around the world. Throughout the tournament, 511 Georgia operators and GDOT staff supported operations to maintain safety and keep motorists moving.  

During the month-long, eight-match schedule, the 511 Georgia team worked around the clock at GDOT’s Transportation Management Center to ensure that motorists, both visitors and Georgia residents, experienced reliable and safe travel on the interstates.  

Here’s a look at 511 Georgia’s impact during the World Cup:  
 

Reflecting on the games, an operator said, “Watching everything live was really cool. Seeing all the fans heading downtown is something we don’t get to see every day, so it felt like a new experience for us, and a memorable one.” 
 

511 Georgia supervisors oversaw roadway access to keep congestion to a minimum. One supervisor noted that “Staying on top of traffic conditions ensured that nothing on the roadway slows down traffic unnecessarily.” This coordination helped keep traffic flowing throughout the event.  
 

From kickoff to the final goal, every 511 Georgia professional played a vital role in making sure that Georgia was prepared during this extraordinary moment. We’re grateful for our staff and all the motorists who traveled safely and stayed informed with 511 Georgia.  

511GA remains Georgia's #1 for real-time traffic information, supporting motorists during the World Cup and beyond. Call 511, visit 511ga.org, download our mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X. 

It’s almost time for the fireworks and barbecues! As Fourth of July Weekend approaches, 511GA is helping motorists plan by sharing expected travel conditions across metro Atlanta interstates. Wherever you may be heading, we’ve got your back with traffic updates and travel tips for a safe and happy holiday.  
 

When to Travel  

Based on past Fourth of July Weekend travel trends in metro Atlanta, motorists should expect:  

• Heavier Traffic: Friday, July 3, 2026, from 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM 
• Typical Traffic: Thursday, July 2; Sunday, July 5; and Monday, July 6, 2026.  
• Lighter Traffic: Independence Day, Saturday, July 4, 2026.  

What to Consider  

With the World Cup in full swing, please be aware that traffic on major interstates may be heavier than usual. Atlanta is hosting the FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park, and two World Cup matches will take place at Atlanta Stadium on July 1 and July 7. Keep these events in mind as you plan your Fourth of July holiday weekend travel.  

Fourth of July Weekend Safety Tips:  

• Move Over & Slow Down to protect roadside workers and responders under Georgia’s Move Over Law.  

• Stay alert and minimize distractions like texting or eating while driving.  

• Buckle up and ensure all passengers are properly secured.   

• Never drive impaired; designate a sober driver or use rideshare services if celebrating.  

For real-time traffic information and updates, call 511, visit 511ga.org, download the 511GA mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X.  

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, 511GA is helping motorists plan ahead with expected travel conditions across metro Atlanta interstates and surface streets. The forecast covers the Wednesday, May 20 to Tuesday, May 26  travel period, with heavier traffic expected in the days leading up to the holiday weekend.


 

As more drivers travel across Georgia for Memorial Day weekend, motorists are encouraged to practice the following travel tips:

• Drive defensively and stay alert
• Avoid distractions and keep a safe following distance
• Move over or slow down for first responders, HERO, CHAMP, and tow vehicles
• Buckle up and make sure children are properly secured