Gear up for Thanksgiving travel troubles

(WFXR) — Traffic congestion is nothing new during the holiday season, but roads and airports will be even more crowded than usual this year.

AAA predicts a total of 55 million Americans traveling this Thanksgiving — 49 million by car and 4.5 million by plane — which is the second highest volume recorded.

Motorists can expect major delays all week, but trips on Wednesday, Nov. 27 may take up to four times longer than usual, especially for those on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. that day.

In order to minimize the stress and risks from traveling, the American Red Cross published safety tips for the Thanksgiving rush.

• Make sure your car is in good shape for a road trip.
• Pack a first aid kit and emergency supplies in your car.
• Check the weather and plan your route to avoid any storms.
• Let another family member or friend know your travel plans.
• Get a full night’s sleep beforehand so you can stay alert.
• Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drive impaired or distracted.
• Obey traffic laws and be cautious in construction zones.
• Pay attention to the road, not your cell phone.
• During long trips, rotate drivers and make frequent rest stops.
• Pull off the road as far as possible if you have car trouble.

The Lynchburg Police Department reminded all drivers to buckle up, as just more than half of traffic fatalities are people not wearing their seatbelts.

As you hit the road for Thanksgiving, remember to buckle up! Using your seat belt can save your life. In 2018 of the 576 fatal crashes, 298 or 52% were unrestrained. In 2019, to date, of the 462 fatal crashes, 235 or 51% were unrestrained. #clickitorticket pic.twitter.com/EVdZRjMDPf

— Lynchburg Police (@LynchburgPolice) November 26, 2019

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