Florida Highway Patrol hopes to reduce 3,988 crashes, 43 Thanksgiving holiday deaths

Florida Highway Patrol hopes to reduce 3,988 crashes, 43 Thanksgiving holiday deaths

HERALD STAFF REPORT

MANATEE -- Millions of Floridians will travel Florida roads over this Thanksgiving holiday so the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles encourages all drivers to take extra care while driving and buckle up before they hit the road.

Florida Highway Patrol troopers, FHP reserve and auxiliary members will patrol the roads over the long weekend to help ensure safe travel.

During the 2014 Thanksgiving holiday period, law enforcement agencies statewide worked 3,988 crashes. Forty-three motorists lost their lives and 10 were not wearing seat belts.

"The Florida Highway Patrol wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving," said Col. Gene Spaulding, FHP directorl. "We are committed to making Florida's roadways safer by augmenting troopers on the road during this busy travel period. But we're also asking you to do your part. Buckling your seat belt is one of the simplest, safest things you'll ever do to stay alive."

This story was originally published November 24, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Florida Highway Patrol hopes to reduce 3,988 crashes, 43 Thanksgiving holiday deaths ."