WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — The Warner Robins Police Department is rolling out a new highway safety initiative to combat dangerous driving during what is expected to be one of the busiest travel seasons in recent years.
The city's Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) program, funded by a $273,206 grant from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, aims to address critical traffic safety concerns as holiday travel numbers continue to climb.
According to AAA, 3.7 million Georgians are expected to travel 50 miles or more during the holiday season, an increase of 108,677 travelers compared to last year.
Roger Hayes, Director of Law Enforcement Services for the Governor's Office, revealed alarming traffic statistics that underscore the program's urgency.
"28% of incidents are alcohol-related. Another 23% speed related and a staggering 53% are distracted driver," Hayes said. "Most critically, 59% of the people killed in the state of Georgia so far this year in 2024 have not been wearing a seatbelt."
The program will deploy two dedicated officers specifically trained to focus on key traffic safety issues, including driving under the influence, distracted driving, speeding, and seatbelt compliance.
Warner Robins Police Chief Wayne Fisher explained that the city's selection for the grant came after years of being grouped with Houston County. This year, they were able to self-report traffic data and demonstrate a clear need for targeted enforcement.
"We have a high incidence of accidents due to people's impatience with traffic management through the city," Fisher said. "By pairing with H.E.A.T., we're allowing ourselves to address multiple facets through a targeted approach."
Chief Fisher says the officers assigned to the program will work seven days a week, 365 days a year, with enforcement actions tailored to specific traffic concerns identified through data analysis. Their approach combines education and enforcement, with the ultimate goal of reducing traffic incidents and saving lives.
Hayes emphasized that the program goes beyond traditional enforcement methods.
"We hope all of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety Grant Programs helps get that word out," Hayes said. "We have a lot of media partners. We do a lot of educational events, but sometimes media doesn't work. Sometimes educational doesn't work and you have to have that enforcement component."
According to the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, the timing of the program coincides with a historically busy travel period. Traffic challenges typically intensify from October through the Christmas season, with increased traffic flow due to holiday shopping and travel.
The H.E.A.T. program is part of a broader statewide initiative, with Warner Robins being one of 26 units implementing similar traffic safety strategies. The program not only aims to improve road safety but potentially help stabilize rising automobile insurance rates by reducing accidents.