Two separate collisions involving patrol cars being hit on GA 365 over the weekend raise concerns about officer safety as summer travel ramps up across North Georgia.
The first crash happened just after 9 p.m. Saturday on the southbound side of GA 365 near James Short Tractor in Alto. According to the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was parked with emergency lights flashing, providing a buffer for a road construction crew, when another vehicle slammed into the rear of his patrol car. The deputy’s Dodge Charger was heavily damaged and had to be towed.
No injuries were reported. The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) is investigating.
Not long after, while crews were still on scene, a second crash occurred on the northbound side of GA 365 near the Double Bridge Connector. According to the sheriff’s office, a Demorest police officer had just stepped out during a traffic stop when a passing vehicle struck the open door of his patrol car. That incident is also under investigation by GSP.
With vacationers and weekend travelers filling the roads, law enforcement says these collisions serve as a serious reminder of the risks first responders face, especially along busy corridors like GA 365.
“This isn’t the first time one of our patrol cars has been hit trying to protect work crews,” said Sheriff Robin Krockum. “We’re thankful no one was hurt, but drivers need to pay attention and slow down.”
Georgia’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over a lane or slow down significantly when approaching emergency or utility vehicles on the shoulder. With heavy summer traffic across the region, especially in mountain and lake-bound areas, officials urge drivers to stay alert and give space to those working to keep the roads safe.
If you see flashing lights, move over or slow down;
it’s not just the law, it’s how you help protect the people protecting you.
