Texas roads will be packed for Thanksgiving. Here’s what to know if you travel
Some 3.6 million travelers are expected to be on Texas roads for the Thanksgiving holiday this year, with Dallas-Fort Worth being a top destination, according to AAA Texas.
After COVID-19 limited holiday trips in 2020, automobile travel is expected to be up 8% from last year. The jump is nearing levels seen in 2019, which was one of the busiest years seen in the state, said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster.
“Wednesday is expected to be the busiest travel day as far as road travel goes, but Sunday will be a close second as folks are coming back home,” he said. “You definitely want to avoid major arteries in major metro areas Wednesday afternoon and evening, as well as on Sunday.”
Construction isn’t expected in Fort Worth, according to the Texas Department of Transportation and Fort Worth Police Department PIO Buddy Calzada. Val Lozpez, a TxDOT spokesperson, said there will be a “lane closure blackout” from Tuesday at 3 p.m. to Monday at 9 a.m.
“Us here in Fort Worth, the only time that we will be out is if we have a major roadway cleanup, either from an accident or a priority one traffic hazard that may have debris spread over the roadway,” Calzada said. “Other than that, we would not foresee any major traffic repairs or constructions during the week of Thanksgiving.”
The department’s DWI team will be “out in full force” as usual, he said.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is increasing traffic enforcement on Wednesday through Sunday for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“This Thanksgiving more people will be out and it’s important to remember it’s up to each one of us to keep the roads safe,” DPS Director Steven McCraw said in a statement. “DPS will do its part to keep Texas safe by holding people accountable, and we want everyone who may be driving for the holiday to do their part by obeying all traffic laws, so everyone gets to their destinations unharmed.”
Tips for drivers
- Get plenty of rest, especially if you’re making a trip that’s more than four hours. Armbruster recommends pulling over every two hours or 100 miles to take a break.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good shape for travel. Calzada said you should take precautions like checking your car’s fluid levels and tires’ air, and be prepared for an unexpected emergency like a flat tire. If you do get a flat on a freeway, exit the freeway safely to change it.
- Plan your route, including stops for gas and rest stops.
This story was originally published November 23, 2021 at 10:21 AM.
