For Immediate Release:
May 23, 2019

Contact:
Tim Weisberg
OTS Marketing and Public Affairs
timothy.weisberg@ots.ca.gov
(916) 509-3020

The OTS encourages drivers to “go safely” during
busy Memorial Day Weekend

Elk Grove, Calif. – Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of the busy summer travel season, and the OTS is reminding drivers hitting the road for a weekend getaway to plan ahead and “go safely.”

According to projections from the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 37 million Americans will be on the road for the Memorial Day holiday, a 3.5% increase from last year. In California, about 4.5 million people will travel by car.

“With so many Californians getting away this weekend, the roads will be packed,” OTS Director Rhonda Craft said. “Bring the patience with you and be safe out there. We are all going places and want to get there safely.”

In order to arrive safely this Memorial Day Weekend, the OTS has a few tips for drivers preparing for a long road trip:

  • Make sure your car is in good, working order. Check your brakes, battery, transmission, tires, oil, windshield wipers, air conditioning and lights.
  • Allow extra time for travel and anticipate delays.
  • Pack an emergency kit with a phone charger, flashlight, first aid kit, spare tire, tire pressure gauge, tire iron and jumper cables.
  • Bring extra snacks, blankets and plenty of water.
  • Never drive distracted, tired or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
  • Monitor traffic conditions, including any crashes, delays and road work using Caltrans’ QuickMap, which is available online or on a free app for iPhones and Androids. QuickMap also shows rest stop locations.

“We are all excited to see family and friends for the extended weekend,” Director Craft said. “Don’t spoil it by being unprepared and not planning ahead.”

The OTS launched a new education and awareness campaign called “Go Safely, California,” which acts a resource for all Californians to stay safe on the go. To learn more about the campaign, visit gosafelyca.org.

The OTS administers funding for traffic safety programs statewide with the goal of reducing deaths, injuries, and economic losses. The OTS is a department under the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA).


 

 

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