TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Thanksgiving holiday period is one of the busiest travel periods of the year and as the day approaches Indiana State Police is reminding drivers to travel responsibly. ISP also announced Monday that extra patrol cars will be out during the holidays.
Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday period, more than 2,300 crashes occurred on Indiana roadways, which resulted in 450 injuries and 8 fatalities, according to an ISP news release. Extra patrols are funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and troopers will be concentrating on impaired, aggressive and distracted drivers.
Troopers are encouraging all drivers to obey the following tips:
- Ensure you are well rested, especially if you have plans to travel a long distance.
- Avoid driving distracted.
- Avoid “hanging out” in the left lane.
- Always follow other vehicles at a safe distance.
- Obey all speed limits and use your turn signals.
- Ensure everyone is buckled up.
- Don’t drink and drive.
- If you have plans to consume alcohol, ensure you have a plan to get you and your family home safely.
ISP also clarified on Monday that it is illegal to hold your phone while driving.
