Thanksgiving is just a few days away and the Lone Star State’s highways will soon be packed with travelers in search of turkey and that perfect piece of pumpkin pie.
While roadways are expected to be busy, travel experts
predict a drop in travel due to COVID. According to AAA Texas, approximately 4
million Texans will hit the highways. That’s down almost 5% from last year. Health
experts advise not traveling due to the current health pandemic. If you’re one
of those who do plan on traveling for the Thanksgiving Holiday, here are some
tips to help make your trip a safe one.
Prepare Yourself. Are there any restrictions at your
planned destination? Check with local authorities to see what you can and can’t
do. Make sure to be ready to follow any local health guidelines. If you are
planning to stay with relatives it is critical to make sure you are healthy and
take precautions to protect your family members. If you are staying at a hotel,
ensure it follows health guidelines and requirements.
Plan Your Route. Consider taking the road less
traveled. The interstates will be the heaviest traveled roadways, but Texas’
backroads have some of the greatest scenery in America. Taking those backroads
may take you a bit longer to reach your destination. However, it’s a great way
to make family memories, keep you off the busy highways, and lower your stress
behind the wheel.
Leave Early. There’s a good chance the rush to that
Thanksgiving dinner will be bigger than a Texas longhorn stampede. Wednesday
afternoon is expected to be the busiest time on the highway. Consider leaving
for your destination early. You’ll be relaxing with family and friends while
others are still stuck in traffic.
Take a Break. Driving fatigued is one of the biggest
causes of wrecks. Add stress and holiday traffic to the mix and the chance for
a serious wreck increases. Help lower that chance by taking frequent breaks.
TxDOT has 80 Safety Rest Areas across the state. Each is designed to provide
you a place to stop and take a break. A simple 15-minute safety break could
save your life.
Be Safe. Drive defensively and keep your head when
other drivers lose their cool. Follow the rules of the road and watch out for
the other driver. Don’t tailgate and watch your speed. Clear thinking can avoid
a wreck. Finally, stay off the phone and never drink and drive.
TxDOT is putting most highway construction on hold for the
holiday. However, it is still a good idea to be prepared for any type of
emergency road work. Crews are ready to keep your roads and highways safe. If
you see them working during your Thanksgiving Weekend trip, it’s a good chance
they’re fixing an urgent problem. Make yours and theirs a great Thanksgiving!