Thanksgiving stands out as one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with millions hitting the roads and skies to spend time with loved ones. According to AAA, over 4.3 million residents of Florida are expected to journey at least 50 miles from home between November 25 and December 1. This marks a 2.6% increase in travel activity compared to the previous year.
To ensure travelers reach their destinations safely, law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts. Both the Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Department of Transportation have launched the “Drive Safe, The Rest Is Gravy” campaign. This initiative encourages drivers to reduce speed and remain vigilant on the roads.
[WATCH: Trooper Steve on Patrol discusses the positive impact of showing kindness on the road]
Authorities are also cracking down on speeding, ensuring seatbelt compliance, and monitoring for impaired driving due to drugs or alcohol. Their heightened presence intends to deter dangerous driving behaviors and promote a safer travel environment during this festive season.
[WATCH: Trooper Steve on Patrol highlights why a little kindness on the roads can go a long way]
They are also watching for speeders, seat belt violations and people driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
“One thing is that everyone packs their patience, because if you’re patient, you’re not speeding, you’re limiting that distraction in your vehicle,” Trooper Migdalisis Garcia told News 6’s Trooper Steve Montiero earlier this week.
Trooper Steve says that means also being a little kinder on the roads — give someone space to merge, let a driver exit a parking lot, and take a breath during delays.
Some things to remember
In Florida, drivers must move over to let emergency vehicles pass, and move over if you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road, so they can maneuver safely.
Check the roads before you head out
FHP has a website that reports the latest road conditions, including traffic crash information around Florida. You can find that website HERE.
You can also check out Florida 511, or download the Florida 511 Mobile App.
See a crash? In a crash? Report it!
If you are in a crash, remember that you need to stay at the scene until cleared by law enforcement, and call 9-1-1. You can also dial *FHP (347) on your mobile phone.
If it’s a minor crash, you can self-report the crash online. Just go to the state website to download the form and email it.
You can also dial *FHP(347) to report drunk drivers, traffic crashes, stranded or disabled vehicles, or other suspicious incidents.
Car trouble? Call the Road Rangers
[WATCH: Trooper Steve on Patrol spotlights Road Rangers]
The Road Rangers can help change flat tires, jump start vehicles, supply emergency gasoline and help in other ways. The Road Rangers are a service provided by the Florida Department of Transportation.
If you need help, call *347 on your mobile phone.
Tired? Pull over!
Driving while tired can lead to impaired judgment, reduced reaction times, and just plain falling asleep. If you need to pull over, do so in a safe place.
[WATCH: Trooper Steve tackles holiday travel myth about filling up your tank]
Under the influence? Get a tow to go
If you’ve had a little too much to drink, no one wants you on the road.
If you can’t call an Uber or taxi or get a ride from someone else, you can call AAA.
The travel club is offering its Tow to Go program now through 6 a.m. on Monday.
A tow truck will take you and your vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius of your location.
The service is free and open to anyone, even if you’re not a AAA member.
This is a last resort option.
Call 1-855-2-TOW-2-GO (2-869-2-46).
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