OSP urges safe travel over holiday

With at least 10 people losing their lives on state highways over the past week, OSP is urging motorists to travel safely this Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

This holiday period (Wednesday through Sunday) will see one of the highest volumes of traffic in over a decade according to AAA Oregon/Idaho. As with other holiday weekends, OSP is urging motorists to plan ahead, expect heavy traffic, expect poor driving conditions with rain expected at lower elevations and snow in the mountain passes, and take your time (see traveling tips at the end of this release). Know the road conditions before traveling by going to http://www.tripcheck.com

Those traveling in lower elevations should expect rain and wet roadways. Increase your following distances due to decreased traction on those wet roadways.

For those traveling Oregon's mountain passes, expect snowfall and winter driving conditions. Know when traction tires are required by visiting http://www.tripcheck.com. Too often these mountain-pass crashes are caused by those not using traction tires. These crashes cause delays that last hours at times. If chains are the traction device, know how to install or use them. Too often we find motorists struggling in deep snow and below-freezing conditions attempting to put them on for the first time.

OSP is also urging motorists to plan their travels:

• Expect heavy traffic volumes. Take extra time to reach your destination.

• Visit ODOT's traveler page, http://www.tripcheck.com.

• Be prepared in the event you become stuck during your travels - Carry water, food, and blankets in the event you are stuck in your vehicle during your trip.

• Get a designated driver (plan ahead) if you plan on consuming intoxicating substances.

• Put the distractions away. Pull over to use that handheld electronic device, ask a passenger to help, or wait to arrive at your destination to use them.

• Watch your speed; often speeding will not get you to your destination any faster. You will fatigue faster, burn more fuel, and create a more hazardous environment on the highway.

• Be extra-vigilant in highway work zones. Even when workers are not present, all work-zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway, so drivers need to slow down and be alert.

• Get rested before you travel. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Be patient and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

• Wear your safety belt. Ensure your passengers and children are properly restrained, too. In many crashes, people would have walked away with minor if any injuries, had they been wearing their safety belts.