Safety tips for traveling during the holidays

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Tonight, many families are packing their bags and preparing to hit the road after celebrating the holiday.

The American Automobile Association projects 119.3 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home between Dec. 21 to Jan. 1. That’s about 3 million more than last year.

According to the National Safety Council, Christmas is one of the busiest times of year but has the fewest amount of traffic deaths.

Jason King with Florida Highway Patrol said it can still happen and wants everyone to make sure they double check everything before hitting the roads this holiday season.

“We get carried away, we get caught up in not knowing our route, trying to look at the map, trying to control kids, getting caught up in the heavy traffic, getting frustrated,” King said. “Everything just grows from there and next thing you know, it leads to a fatal crash or a serious injury crash during the holidays.”

This morning, officials say a van carrying nine people lost control on Boston Highway in Monticello, Florida.

The front passenger, a 30-year-old from Georgia died. Another passenger from Georgia was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

King said this is just one example of a tragic accident that can happen anytime, even during the holidays.

He said before traveling to your destination, make sure you and your vehicle are prepared.

“As you become a defensive driver, you start with, let me check the tires, let me walk around my car really quick a day or two before I go,” he said. “Let me make sure the oil is changed, let me check these windshield wipers. Let’s make sure everything’s working, radiator fluid. It’s kind of crazy, but all the little things matter.”

King also recommends planning ahead and expect delays. He told me it’s better to practice patience than getting ahead of yourself, especially if it means getting you and your family to your destination safely.

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