As Thanksgiving weekend marks one of the busiest travel times of the year, the Kansas Department of Transportation, Kansas Highway Patrol, and Kansas Turnpike Authority are urging travelers to buckle up for safe holiday travel. According to KDOT statistics, 22 people have died in traffic crashes during the past five Thanksgiving weekends in Kansas. KDOT Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said, “seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by nearly 50 percent.”

Law enforcement officers statewide will have a heightened presence throughout the holiday period, focusing on traffic safety. The Kansas Turnpike Authority is also preparing for higher traffic volumes during the Thanksgiving holiday.

“With the change to cashless tolling on the Kansas Turnpike, all traffic will keep moving rather than stopping at a toll booth this holiday season, which helps improve safety,” said KTA CEO Steve Hewitt. “Drivers will pay tolls using a compatible transponder, like KTAG, or via a mailed bill.”

Before hitting the road, KDOT, KHP, and KTA advise motorists to check their vehicle’s tires and fluid levels, and ensure they have a basic winter travel kit for emergencies. Essential items include blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, a cell phone charger, ice scraper, jumper cables, flashlight with batteries, and a first-aid kit. More information can be found at DriveKS.com.