Holiday Travel Increases Dangers

More than 43 million people are expected to hit the road to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday. With millions on the highways, it increases the risk for accidents.The Missouri Department of Transportation say more drivers on the road mean more dangers.”We always see more people on the roads and with that comes a chance for an increase in accidents,” said Sally Oxenhandler.According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, last Thanksgiving, Missouri had 1,300 accidents and four deaths. Those are numbers that MoDOT wants to lower.”We just ask for people to slow down, be careful and stay alert,” said Oxenhandler. “It really is a matter of common sense.”In addition to common sense, MoDOT has a smartphone app that shows drivers road conditions and alerts travelers of accidents. The app breaks down both major and rural Missouri highways. It will also show drivers street views of busy intersections from MoDOT’s live traffic cameras.Even though the app saves time, MoDOT officials have one main concern.”We never recommend that people look at the app while they’re driving,” said Oxenhandler. “It’s something they need to do before their travels or pull over.”Another safety move that MoDOT plans to do is limit construction on roads.”We’re going to end our operations at noon on Wednesday and pick back up on Monday,” Oxenhandler said. “Because our goal is to get out of everyone’s way.”Drivers can also use the MoDOT hotline by calling 1-888-ASK-MODOT. The hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week and callers can have their travel questions answered.