The Central Florida Expressway Authority is asking drivers to use caution and make safe choices as they travel for the Thanksgiving holiday. In commemoration of Thanksgiving and to accommodate holiday travelers, no lane or ramp closures are scheduled Thursday, November 27 through Sunday, November 30, 2014.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that 2.02 million Floridians, and a total of 46.3 million motorists nation-wide, are expected to travel on the highways this Thanksgiving Day holiday weekend. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 418 traffic fatalities and another 44,700 accident-related injuries may occur nation-wide from motor vehicle collisions during the busy Thanksgiving Day holiday period.
Thanksgiving can be a challenging time to be on the roads. Between motorists visiting families or shopping during the start of the holiday shopping season, the roads will be busier than ever. To help prevent accidents on the roads, the Central Florida Expressway Authority offers a few simple tips for drivers to ensure safe holiday travels:
- Plan ahead: Before you get on the road, know your exit by name and number, and watch the signs as you near the off-ramp. Drivers making unexpected lane changes to exit often cause accidents.
- Keep your eyes on the road: Distracted driving is a major cause of traffic accidents. Even just two seconds of distraction time doubles the chances of an accident. Use your cell phone when stopped and never text while driving.
- Leave early and avoid risks: Leave early so you won’t be anxious about arriving late and to accommodate delays. Road conditions may change due to inclement weather or traffic congestion.
- Slow Down: With the extra highway congestion due to holiday travel, speeding becomes even more dangerous. Allow plenty of space between fellow motorists and reduce your speed.
- Buckle up: Safety belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45 percent and are a simple way to increase your safety on the road.
The Central Florida Expressway Authority family wishes you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.