Funviralpark Waco, Texas (KWTX) – This holiday weekend is one of the busiest travel times of the year, with nearly 9 million Texans expected to be on the road or in the air.
More than 8 million Texans will be driving on holiday from December 23rd to January 2nd, according to AAA.
“8.3 million people are driving, which is up about 3% from last year,” said AAA Texas spokesman Daniel Armbruster.
This is the third highest year-end travel volume in the last 20 years. Also, more travelers come with higher risks, especially for those driving long hours or at night. Armbruster says drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving.
According to TXDoT, 23% of traffic accidents during the 2021 holiday season were due to drunk driving, with 98 fatalities. These numbers carry a message that authorities cannot stress enough.
“There really are no excuses these days. Ride-sharing apps, or family friends and family. And if it really comes down to that, just stay where you are. , don’t drive behind the wheel,” says Jake Smith, a spokesman for the Texas Department of Transportation in Waco.
The temperature has dropped significantly, but the roads are clear due to the lack of precipitation. Both AAA and TXDoT tell you to control your speed as traffic increases, but be extra careful when traveling north.
“Keep your vehicle properly serviced and conditioned for an expedition. Always have a AAA-recommended emergency road kit ready. ,” Armbruster explains.
About 300,000 Texans take to the skies ahead of their holiday celebrations. If you plan to pass through a busy airport, be prepared for weather delays and cancellations.
“You want to get there early, but it may still be busy. Many people are trying to fly in the next few days, but major hubs like DFW and Chicago are such places. It’s going to be madhouse,” says Armbruster.
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