Crime & Safety

Highway Patrol Reminds Holiday Travelers to Buckle Up

The Florida Highway Patrol will increase its presence Nov. 22-25 on Florida's high-volume roadways during the four-day Thanksgiving holiday

The Thanksgiving holiday is a peak travel period for families coming together in South Tampa, but far too often the holiday celebration turns to tragedy because of failure to drive carefully and buckle up.  

The Florida Highway Patrol will increase its presence Nov. 22-25 on Florida’s high-volume roadways during the four-day period. Auxiliary and reserve troopers will volunteer to augment the patrol.

Troopers will focus their enforcement efforts on impaired driving, speeding, following too closely and other aggressive driving behaviors. In addition, troopers will conduct strict enforcement of safety belt and child restraint laws.

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“Throughout the year and especially during busy travel times, such as the Thanksgiving holiday, we enforce Florida’s seatbelt law to help save lives and prevent injuries,” said Col. David Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “We encourage drivers to do their part by complying with all traffic laws to arrive at their destinations safely.”    

The FHP offers tips to help you and your family arrive at your destination safely:

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  • Get plenty of rest before setting out on a long trip.
  • Observe and obey all speed limits.
  • 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 and attention off the road, which is exactly what you want to avoid.

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.

To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov, follow on Twitter @FDHSMV or find on Facebook


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