Practicing safe travel during holidays

The holiday season is a special time for family and friends.

During November, and as we celebrate Thanksgiving, we are able to reflect on the true spirit of thankfulness. The blessings in our lives are abundant and we should not allow them to go unnoticed.

As we practice gratitude, we are reminded that it is not just what we have, but also for the amazing people who fill our lives. A heartfelt gesture, a helping hand, or simple kindness to those around us can make a huge difference. Every moment and every individual in our lives is a blessing.

As you celebrate the holiday and hone the connections that unite us as a community, you will find hope and gratitude. As Norman Vincent Peale stated, “The more you practice the art of thankfulness, the more you have to be thankful for.”

On behalf of Levelland ISD, I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.

Motorists are urged to slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles including tow trucks, police cars and fire trucks, as they travel Texas roadways during this Thanksgiving holiday.

Texas law requires drivers to slow down at least 20 miles per hour under the posted speed limit or, if able, to change lanes when they’re passing a first responder stopped on the road.

Large numbers of travelers are expected on Texas roads, which means that more breakdowns and traffic stops are likely as well. Drivers should pay attention to what’s happening around them and prepare to react quickly.

“Please slow down or move over when you see emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road. Our tow truck licensees work hard every day to help people who are stranded on the side of the road. And, like everyone else, they are anxious to return home safely each night,” said Courtney Arbour, executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

TDLR regulates tow trucks as well as driver education and driving safety courses.

Safety tips for driving this Thanksgiving season (or any day, really): Slow down and pay attention to what you’re doing. If you get tired, pull over in a safe spot and walk around to re-energize.

Don’t drink and drive, even a little bit.

Designate a (sober) driver. Stay off the mobile phone – this includes texting. Designate a “co-pilot” to oversee the phone while you’re driving so you can concentrate on the task at hand.

Stay weather-aware. If it’s snowy or icy, you’ll need to slow down significantly so you don’t slide on unexpected icy spots. If it’s raining heavily, turn around and don’t drown if water is running across the road. Only two feet of rushing water can sweep away a vehicle.

Leave plenty of time to get to your destination. Roadways are likely to be crowded. Drive friendly – the Texas way!