ORLANDO, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Highway Patrol on Friday urged safety as a record amount of people are expected to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Officials said it’s vital that drivers exercise care while behind the wheel.
“They need to be patient. Let’s plan your route before you get behind the wheel so we’re not driving distracted,” FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said.
Drivers were urged to make sure their vehicle is ready for the trip, to buckle up and to never drive while distracted or impaired.
According to AAA, 4.5 million Floridians are expected to travel for the holiday.
With so many vehicles on the highways, officials reminded drivers of Florida’s updated Move Over Law.
“If you see anyone that’s on the shoulder changing their tire or you see EMS or law enforcement, you need to move over,” Crescenzi said. “If it’s not safe to move over, you need to reduce your speed 20 miles under that posted speed limit.”
FDOT also proves free roadside assistance to stranded drivers on Florida highways.
Through the Road Ranger program, drivers can receive help with changing a tire or minor repairs by dialing *FHP (*347).