The Thanksgiving holiday is now upon us, and whether you are traveling to grandmothers house or across town, safety needs to be your top priority while on Indiana’s roadways. Here are a few tips and reminders to help keep you and your loved ones safe this holiday weekend.
- No Distracted Driving
Make sure your cell phones are charged and with you when traveling, but leave them alone while driving. If you are using your GPS, have a passenger man the controls or simply input your destination before you begin your trip. You as a driver should be primarily focused on driving.
- Patience While Driving
Take a deep breath, clear your mind, and relax. Thousands of other motorists, which means thousands of other families, are on the same roads you are on, in the same traffic congestion you are in, dealing with the same time constraints you may be experiencing. Being a patient and courteous driver will make the trip more relaxing and, in turn, safer for everyone involved.
- Allow for Extra Time in your Travels
If you budget extra time for your trip, dealing with traffic delays will not put you behind schedule or cause you to pick up the speed. Give yourself plenty of time to make your trip, follow the speed limit, and arrive safely and in time for your gathering.
- Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving
If you are planning on consuming adult beverages while at your gatherings and anticipate driving or traveling afterwards, have a plan for a sober person to drive you and your family, regardless of how much you have had to drink. Crashes on our roadways due to intoxicated drivers are simply unacceptable and are completely avoidable if motorists are responsible within the decisions they make.
- Remember the Necessary Supplies
Car trouble and break downs happen at the most unexpected times. Be sure that your gas tank is full, and that you maintain at least half a tank while traveling. Also, pack a cell phone charger, some bottled water, and blankets in case help cannot immediately arrive to assist you.
The Indiana State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state will be increasing patrols throughout the holiday weekend, targeting dangerous, reckless, and impaired drivers. We will remain dedicated to doing our part to keeping Indiana’s roadways safe. We want all people, Hoosiers and those traveling through our state alike, to have a safe Thanksgiving weekend.
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