Most will drive this holiday season

The holiday season is upon us, and this means many of us will be on the move.

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), there will be about 40 million drivers. Since so many are expected to be driving America’s highways this year, the roads could become quite dangerous.

So, be careful out there. Some of you may choose Amtrak or Greyhound to reach your holiday destination. Remember, if you do choose the train, bus or plane, try to pack light. Only bring necessities. If you’ve got tons of gifts that you are bringing to a relative or friend’s house, you should drive, or mail the packages to alleviate security hassles.

To help prepare for highway travel at this time, or any time of the year, ODOT’s travel advisory Web site, TripCheck, is the place to go for information. It is easily accessed on the internet at www.tripcheck.com, and features a new map interface, improved reporting of highway conditions, camera views of major Oregon highways and passes, links to other state highway conditions and more information on other modes of transportation.

So, if driving or flying, be safe and considerate to others by planning your trip ahead of time.

ODOT checklist for safe travel
* Check your car or have it serviced before any long trip.

* Pack an emergency kit that includes water, snacks, jumper cables, flares, a flashlight, a first aid kit and equipment to change a tire.

* Ensure that your gas tank has a sufficient supply to avoid running out of gas in a remote area.

* Require all occupants to buckle up, with children under 12 years of age properly restrained by safety seats or safety belts in the back seat.

* Respect posted speed limits, traffic control devices and signs.

* Don’t drink and drive. If you are going someplace where alcohol will be served, have a designated driver.

* Get plenty of rest before starting your trip. During your trip, take frequent breaks (at least one every two hours) to avoid driving while fatigued.