In a thrilling turn of events, Savannah is once again at the forefront of a relentless battle against drunk drivers. Operation Thunder, a joint effort by the Savannah Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS), is set to strike fear into the hearts of those who dare to get behind the wheel while intoxicated.
With the success of a previous operation in June, where 55 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence, law enforcement agencies are determined to make the streets of Savannah safer. This time, they are leaving no stone unturned, targeting not only drunk drivers but also speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, and other illegal behaviors that put innocent lives at risk.
The GOHS Thunder Task Team, led by the indomitable Allen Poole, is returning to the Hostess City with a vengeance. Their mission is clear: to apprehend those who choose to gamble with their own lives and the lives of others by driving under the influence. The stakes are higher than ever, with the holiday season in full swing, and the GOHS urges everyone to plan ahead for a sober ride if they plan on drinking.
Startling federal crash data reveals the grim reality of the situation in Chatham County. From 2017 to 2021, one out of every four traffic deaths involved a driver with a Blood-Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level of .08 or higher, the legal limit in Georgia. Even more alarming is the fact that 75% of fatal drunk driving deaths in the county over the past five years involved drivers with a BAC twice the legal limit.
To combat this harrowing statistic, sobriety road checks will be conducted on Friday and Saturday nights, leaving no room for drunk drivers to escape the long arm of the law. This is the only warning they will receive before facing the consequences of their actions.
As the Thunder Task Force Operation unfolds, the city of Savannah holds its breath, hoping for a safer future on its roads. The tireless efforts of law enforcement officers and troopers, combined with the support of the community, will undoubtedly make a significant impact in curbing the menace of drunk driving.
With the fate of countless lives hanging in the balance, the battle against drunk driving in Savannah intensifies. Operation Thunder is a testament to the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect and serve, ensuring that the streets of Savannah remain safe for all who call it home.
