Highway Safety Tips For Thanksgiving Travel

Media Contact: Eric Reller, ereller@trucking.org  

As over 37 million motorists prepare to hit the road this Thanksgiving, a team of million mile accident-free drivers are helping to make our roads safer.

America's Road Team Captains, elite professional truck drivers chosen by the American Trucking Associations, are offering advice on how to navigate through highway traffic and arrive at your destination safely.

Tips include:

• 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.

• Prepare your vehicle for long distance travel: Check your wipers and fluids. Have your radiator and cooling system serviced. Simple maintenance can prevent many of the problems that strand motorists on the side of the road before you leave your home.
  
  
  
  
  
• Plan ahead:  Before you get on a highway, 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.
  

• Do not cut in front of large trucks:  Remember that trucks are heavier and take longer to make a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
  
  
• Be aware of truck blind spots:  When sharing the road with large trucks, be aware of their blind spots.  If you can't see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then the truck driver can't see you.
  
  
• Use a map or GPS:  Surprisingly, few motorists plan their routes, even when driving through unfamiliar areas. Knowing the road is essential for safe driving - it allows you to anticipate lane changes and avoid a panicked search for directions.
  
  
• Check your emergency kit: Contents should include: battery powered radio, flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, maps, tire repair kit and flares.
  
  
• Be aware of changes in weather: Weather conditions across the U.S. will be changing - especially during early mornings and evenings with the cold. Watch for ice, snow and other weather related obstacles. Also, remember weather can change dramatically from when you start your trip to when you end. Bring a sweater and watch for the signs.
  
  
• Use common sense: Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday and more motorists create additional obstacles - be sure to use extra caution.
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• Know your limitations: Don't drive when tired, upset, or physically ill.  Remember, when traveling in a car, you are in control and can take a break if needed.
  
  
• Slow Down: With the extra highway congestion due to Holiday travel, speeding becomes even more dangerous. Allow plenty of space cushion and reduce your speed.
  
  

"Thanksgiving is about being with your family," said America's Road Team Captain Steve Eckhoff, "But this also means that we'll see a rise in highway traffic, with many motorists driving in unfamiliar areas. Caution and patience is especially important so we all arrive safely to our loved ones."

The America's Road Team would like to remind the motoring public that from driveway to highway, safety requires patience and dedication.

For more information visit ATA's America's Road Team website, sponsored by Volvo Trucks North America.