Thousands of Travelers Hit Oklahoma Roadways for Thanksgiving Holiday

GUTHRIE, OK-- AAA Oklahoma estimates more than 500,000 Oklahomans will travel this Thanksgiving Holiday, but many out-of-state travelers will also share Oklahoma highways as they make their way to family celebrations.

"I'm from Austin, Texas and I'm heading to Winfield, Kansas," said Susan Forrester.

Forrester and her family make a straight shoot up I-35 through Oklahoma each Thanksgiving weekend. 

"Once we get into Southern Oklahoma and all the way up here, it's fantastic," said Forrester.

After years braving the roads Thanksgiving Week, Forrester and her family have a system that prevents hassle and travel hazards.  This includes heading out early, avoiding roads during peak travel hours, and eliminating distractions in the car. 

Forrester says after many years of holiday travel her family has seen some messy accidents on I-35, which is why state troopers want all holiday travelers to be extra careful as they prepare to hit Oklahoma roadways. 

"Nobody wants to be involved in a collision anytime," said Trooper Betsy Randolph with Oklahoma Highway Patrol, "but it's devastating when someone's involved in a fatality collision during the holidays."

Trooper Randolph says Oklahoma suffered six fatalities last year during the Thanksgiving Holiday.  She says troopers will be out in full force to ensure holiday travelers stay safe on the road.  Trooper Randolph emphasizes the importance of wearing a seatbelt, avoiding texting while driving, and never driving drunk or drowsy.

"We know how easy it is to be distracted with cell phones and GPS's," she said, "and so we want people to do those things that are safe so we all have a happy holidays."

Thousands of Travelers Hit Oklahoma Roadways for Thanksgiving Holiday

Posted: Sunday, November 18 2012, 09:18 PM CST