GEORGIA, USA — According to the Department of Public Safety, six people have now died in separate traffic accidents in Georgia during the holiday travel season surrounding Independence Day on July 4.

The fatal incidents occurred in Lafayette, Newnan, Henry County, Madison and Forest Park, DPS said in its X-post.

According to the Georgia State Patrol and the Motor Carrier Compliance Division, the holiday travel period is 102 hours, beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 7.

Government authorities are urging the population to be careful on the roads.

According to authorities, nine people died in traffic accidents on the Fourth of July weekend last year.

AAA projects that 70.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home over Independence Day weekend.

“State troopers and officers will be out in full force patrolling interstates, state highways and county roads throughout Georgia during what AAA predicts will be the busiest Independence Day holiday season ever,” said Col. William Hitchens III, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety.

The state authorities urge the population to know and follow the traffic rules. These include:

• Georgia's Hands-Free Law
• Fastening the seat belt
• Observe the maximum permitted speed
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Some drivers in the Peach State may have noticed that police are increasing patrols on the roads to minimize accidents. GSP is also participating in a statewide campaign against drunk driving and aggressive driving.

“Patrol officers will work with sheriff's deputies and police to arrest drunk drivers and crack down on aggressive speeders and inattentive drivers,” a press release said.

11Alive will update this story if the department reports additional traffic fatalities.