11/22/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/22/2021 14:28
Today, American Trucking Associations and ATA's Share the Road highway safety program provided tips for safe driving ahead of the Thanksgiving weekend.
Nearly 53 million Americans are expected to travel over the road at least 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving holiday, the highest on record since 2005, according to the AAA auto club.
"The high volume of travelers for Thanksgiving amplifies the importance of taking safe driving measures to ensure everyone can make it to the dinner table," said Share the Road professional truck driver Earl Taylor of Penske Logistics. "Many families were unable to see family during the pandemic, and we want to be sure they get to their destinations safely."
High traffic volume can contribute to congestion and a reduction in speeds. Share the Road's award winning Instructional Video spreads truck safety messages to the millions of motorists who will be driving alongside large trucks this week. The video, featuring professional truck drivers, gives an eight-minute recap of critical safe-driving habits and has already been viewed by hundreds of thousands of motorists, including truck drivers and the general motoring public.
"The professional truck drivers in the Share the Road Instructional Video are highly-trained drivers who have accrued millions of accident-free miles. Just taking a few minutes to review some of these important safety messages can make all the difference on the road," said ATA Executive Vice President of Industry Affairs and Senior Advisor Elisabeth Barna.
Thanksgiving offers several other driving challenges beyond traffic congestion. Winter driving presents unique problems for motorists, including high wind and blowing snow, which contribute to reduced visibility in many regions throughout North America. Similarly, freezing temperatures can have a profound impact on vehicles and roadways. A thorough pre-trip inspection and understanding of driving conditions can play a significant role in driving success this holiday season.
"As a veteran driver and a truck driver from Missouri, I have been trained to deal with wintery conditions on the road," said Share the Road professional truck driver Steve Fields of Yellow. "It's important to make sure your vehicle is prepared for extended trips. Check your wiper fluids, antifreeze, and pack a few extra blankets before you pull out of the driveway in case of emergency."
Share the Road professional drivers recommend these safety tips to drivers and would like to remind motorists about some key elements of safe driving, including how to operate small passenger vehicles near large tractor-trailers: