We urge all drivers to exercise patience and caution
Santa Fe, NM – As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) would like to remind all travelers to prioritize safety during their journeys. Millions of people travel over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, making it one of the busiest times of the year on the road. Whether you’re driving across town or across the country, we want you to arrive safely. We encourage everyone to prepare accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday. Remember to allow yourself plenty of time to travel and follow the safety tips below!
NMDOT is working to monitor and maintain roadways, ensuring they are clear and safe for holiday travel. We urge all drivers to exercise patience and caution. Before you hit the road, visit NMRoads.com for up-to-date information on road conditions, closures, and weather advisories across the state.
Tips for Safe Holiday Travel:
- Buckle Up.
- Don’t Drink and Drive.
- Visit NMRoads.com for up-to-date information on road conditions, closures, and weather advisories across the state.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Include items like a flashlight, blankets, water, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, an ice scraper, and a phone charger.
- Leave extra time to reach your destination and avoid rushing.
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions, stay off your cell phone. If you need to make a call or send a message, pull over.
- Be patient when driving: Maintain a calm and composed attitude while behind the wheel, avoiding aggressive maneuvers and quick reactions to traffic situations.
- Slow down and maintain a safe following distance.
- Use your headlights in low visibility conditions.
- Never use cruise control on wet or icy surfaces.
- Confirm your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread for icy or snowy conditions.
- Check your battery, brakes, and windshield wipers.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.