FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL INCREASES ENFORCEMENT FOR THANKSGIVING TRAVEL PERIOD

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Thanksgiving holiday is a peak travel period for families nationwide. Florida is no exception, with its inviting climate and numerous vacation options.  Because Thanksgiving typically produces a high volume of motor vehicle traffic, the Florida Highway Patrol will increase its presence on Nov. 24 - 28.  All sworn FHP personnel, including those typically assigned to administrative duties, will patrol Florida’s high volume roadways during the five-day period. Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will volunteer to augment the Patrol.

Troopers will direct their enforcement efforts toward impaired driving, speeding, following too closely and other aggressive driving behavior. In addition, troopers will strictly enforce safety belt and child restraint laws. 

"The Florida Highway Patrol is committed to making Florida’s highways safe, and we plan to do that by bolstering our forces to reduce the number and severity of crashes," said FHP Director, Colonel John Czernis. "During this hectic time, it is easy to lose your temper while driving as evidenced by recent incidents of road rage.  Our troopers are prepared to take immediate action to stop others from placing innocent lives at risk, whether the weapon is a gun or a vehicle.”

The Florida Highway Patrol offers safety tips to help you and your family arrive at your destination safely:

• Get plenty of rest before setting out on a long trip

• Observe and obey all speed limits

• Allow plenty of time to reach your destinations

• Drive sober, and only sober

• Buckle up!

• Eliminate distractions: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the stereo – these are all examples of things that can take your eyes off the road, which is exactly what you want to avoid.

• Prepare your vehicle: Check fluids for proper levels, i.e. oil, gas and windshield wipers, and ensure your tires have adequate pressure and are in good condition.

The Florida Highway Patrol wishes everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving and reminds motorists of Florida’s Move Over Law. The law requires drivers who approach an emergency vehicle or tow truck stopped roadside with flashing lights to change lanes away from the emergency vehicles if able to do so safely and if not, slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit.

Call *FHP (*347) to report intoxicated or aggressive drivers, or if your vehicle breaks down and you need assistance. To request immediate emergency services, dial 911.


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