SC Highway Patrol offers safety tips for Thanksgiving travelers

ORANGEBURG, SC (WOLO) — While plenty of folks will fly to their Thanksgiving destination, even more will drive. AAA reports nearly 55 million Americans will share the roads for the holiday weekend.

Lance Corporal Brittany Glover with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety says highways across the Midlands starting Wednesday through Sunday will be just as busy — so be prepared.

“Just make sure you remain courteous to other drivers, and also just pack your patience. Because everybody is trying to get to and from their family’s house for the holidays,” Glover says.

Before heading out, State Troopers encourage everyone to make sure your vehicle is “trip-ready” by checking appropriate fluids and tire pressures.

And with the department reporting 11 traffic fatalities last Thanksgiving season, Glover says avoid common mistakes made by drivers by always going the speed limit, wearing your seatbelt, and not driving while impaired or driving while distracted.

“We’re wishing everybody a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Don’t make the wrong decision. And don’t drive impaired. Just make sure you make good sound decisions for the holiday season,” Glover says.

Should your vehicle break down or you find yourself needing assistance while on the road, officers are just a phone call away.

“If you get stranded on the roadways or interstates, we’ll be out in full force to help everybody out. So the number that you can call is STAR-HP which is STAR 4-7. And we’ll be happy to come assist you in any way,” Glover says.

And if you’re traveling a long distance, Glover says switch drivers at a safe location if you’re able to do so, to prevent exhaustion.