Millions of Floridians are expected to travel Florida roads over this Thanksgiving holiday. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles encourages all drivers to take extra care while driving and buckle up before they hit the road.
Through the long holiday weekend, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers, along with FHP reserve and auxiliary members, will be patrolling the roads to help ensure safe travel.
During the 2014 Thanksgiving holiday period, law enforcement agencies statewide worked 3,988 crashes. Tragically, 43 motorists lost their lives and 10 of those were not wearing seatbelts. This Thanksgiving, and every day of the year, buckle up before you start any road trip, whether it’s around the corner or across the state.
“The Florida Highway Patrol wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving,” said Col. Gene Spaulding, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “We are committed to making Florida’s roadways safer by augmenting troopers on the road during this busy travel period. But we’re also asking you to do your part. Buckling your seatbelt is one of the simplest, safest things you’ll ever do to stay alive.”
DHSMV reminds drivers to obey the speed limit, and adjust accordingly as traffic congestion and weather conditions may require driving more slowly.
The public is encouraged to report aggressive or impaired drivers by dialing *FHP (*347). Remember to check traffic conditions before you leave for your trip. For more information, real time traffic conditions and additional travel information, visit: www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/traffic.
