PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — You're probably making a vacation checklist if you're heading out of town for the holidays, but you should also be making a travel plan.
Traveling for the holidays can be exciting, but can also be dangerous.
Florida Highway Patrol crash data shows that since 2015, the most crashes on highways in our area have happened on or around Dec. 22, no matter what day of the week it falls on.
The peak times for crashes are also usually around 6 a.m., noon, and in the 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. hour.
"Obviously with the increase of motorists out there our troopers, men and women, will be out there enforcing the law," said Florida Highway Patrol's Public Information Officer, Lt. Alvaro Feola.
Lt. Feola said crashes will happen, so if you see them make sure to report it to 911.
"If you have a minor fender bender and there's no injuries and you're able to move the vehicle, please clear the lanes, get out of the roadway cause a lot of times that can create a secondary crash," Lt. Feola said.
It's also important to make a travel plan including what route you will take.
"We came up the Turnpike, 95 was a mess," said Rob Swanson, who is visiting family in Stuart.
Most travelers like to get on the road a few days before the holiday which can help beat traffic.
"We usually try to come a little before Christmas because three years ago we came Christmas time and it was just insane, so many people, so crowded," said Gabriela Rezende, who is visiting Florida from Brazil.
FHP ask drivers to check their car tires and your car's condition before getting on the road.
If you need any assistance on the highways, call *347 to reach a Road Ranger.
