By MICHAEL CRIMMINS
Glasgow News 1
The Glasgow Police Department and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet each remind travelers to drive safely amidst the increased holiday traffic.
Thanksgiving weekend is “one of the busiest times of the year on the road,” according to a Glasgow police press release. Roughly 82 million people are expected to travel with the vast majority of people — about 73.2 million — expected to travel by automobile, AAA stated.
“Whether you are driving across town or across the country, we want you to arrive safely, always remember to buckle up and don’t drive impaired,” the police department stated.
In addition to buckling up, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet advises people to avoid distractions while driving, particularly avoidable distractions like cell phones. Data from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety showed that each year distracted driving and driver inattention — which has become the leading cause of crashes over the past 10 years, the cabinet stated — results in more than 40,000 crashes, more than 11,000 injuries and more than 150 deaths.
“The most heartbreaking crashes are the ones we know didn’t have to happen,” said Glasgow native and transportation secretary Jim Gray. “A seat belt clicked and a phone put away can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy. We all have the power to make choices that protect our families and everyone sharing the road.”
Glasgow police offers 10 tips to help keep people safe while traveling:
- Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
- Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.
- Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
- Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
- Be well rested and alert.
- Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.
- Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
- Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
- Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
- If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.
The department also stated they will have additional units out on the roadways during the holiday season.
