FHP Steps Up Enforcement For Thanksgiving Travel
FT. LAUDERDALE (CBS4) - If you're traveling on Florida's roadways over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, you won't be alone. That's because the Florida Highway Patrol is increasing its presence over the long five-day holiday period which began Wednesday.
The Thanksgiving holiday is a peak travel period, but far too often the holiday celebration turns to tragedy because of failure to drive carefully and wear seat belts. That's why troopers who are normally assigned to administrative duties will be reassigned to patrol duties on high volume roadways. In addition, Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will also volunteer to assist during the heightened holiday enforcement period.
To make the drive safer for everyone, the FHP suggests getting some sleep before setting out on a long trip, mind the speed limits, allow for plenty of time to reach your destination and eliminate distractions; keep talking on a cell phone to a minimum and no texting.
They also remind all drivers of Florida's Move Over Law which requires motorists to move over when a patrol car, emergency vehicle or tow truck/wrecker is stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing. Motorists are required to change lanes away from emergency vehicles if able to or slow to 20 mph hour below the posted limit if they cannot safely change lanes.
Anyone who spots a driver who appears to be intoxicated or driving in an aggressive manner is urged to call the FHP (*347).
During the Thanksgiving weekend the complimentary coffee will be offered at the service plazas on the Florida Turnpike from 11 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Thursday and 11 p.m. Sunday until 6 a.m. Monday.
