- Massachusetts Department of Transportation
BOSTON — Massachusetts is home to the “first Thanksgiving,” a feast in 1621! Many things have changed since then, but one thing we continue to do is get together with family and friends to share a bountiful meal. Wherever you will be this Thanksgiving, November 27th, it’s important to recognize this holiday as a top travel day on the roads. Travel plans may be local or distant, but preparation and safety is important to all of us.
Plan your route and note the busiest times to travel. MassDOT will share the best and worst times to be on the road around the holiday weekend. If you can plan your travels flexibly, you can reduce time in traffic congestion.
Designate a passenger to be your navigator to check for traffic and delays. Avoid any distractions by never using a cell phone while driving. It’s the law for a good reason.
Be safe. All passengers should always wear seat belts. Your vehicle is designed to keep everyone safer when you use all safety systems, including seat belts and car seats for younger travelers.
Never drive while under the influence of any substance. Even small amounts of drugs or alcohol can affect your reaction time and ability to be a good driver. If you are a host, be sure all your guests get home safely. Sober drivers can offer to drive or contact a rideshare to be sure the night ends on a thankful note. That goes for being well-rested behind the wheel as well.
Make sure your vehicle is in good repair for any extended trip and head out on the road with a full tank of gas or electric charge.
Pack your patience and the pumpkin pie. Expect some delays and be prepared for any weather conditions. If you need to take a break, utilize the rest areas available or find a safe place to reset your travel team to complete your journey.
The MAPFRE Insurance-sponsored MassDOT Highway Assistance Program is on patrol to help all motorists, including motorcyclists, on the highways. Patrol operators monitor some of the state’s busiest highways around Metro Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cape Cod (seasonal). The Highway Assistance Patrol covers 13 major state roadways and interstates, the Emergency Service Patrol covers the Mass Pike (I-90) from New York to Boston and the Incident Response Operators cover the Metropolitan Highway System and tunnels. The Highway Assistance Patrol is in service Monday–Friday between 6 a.m.–10 a.m. and 3 p.m.–7 p.m. During holidays, there are extended routes in heavy-traffic areas. On I-90, and in Boston’s tunnel system, assistance is provided 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
Written by,
Your friends at MAPFRE Insurance
