Summer travel is heating up across the country and many people will celebrate this holiday weekend by hitting the road and traveling to - and through - the Sunflower State. The Kansas Turnpike Authority and Kansas Highway Patrol and The Kansas Department of Transportation are partnering to remind motorists to travel safely during Independence Day, and throughout the rest of the summer.
From July 3 through July 5, KHP personnel will be working in support of the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) enforcement, along with personnel from other states. C.A.R.E. focuses on occupant protection, impaired driving laws, and other crash-causing traffic violations. C.A.R.E.’s goal is increased safety and ease of travel on our nation’s roadways.
Being prepared for any summer travel is a big factor in keeping your trip running smoothly,” said Steve Hewitt, Kansas Turnpike Authority CEO. “For our travelers on the Turnpike, if you find yourself needing roadside assistance, our State Farm Safety Assist program is available in our busy corridors to help get you back up and running.”
Before travelers pack their cars, they can check their route for potential delays or construction with the help of KanDrive, www.kandrive.org. KanDrive includes camera images and interactive maps as well as links to rest areas and travel and tourism sites.
Smartphone users can access the site by going to www.kandrive.org and bookmarking it to your home screen so it’s ready when you need it. If users would prefer to use the text-based mobile website, it can be found at 511mm.ksdot.org.
Much of the same information can be accessed by calling 5-1-1 in Kansas or 1- 866-511-KDOT (5368) in the U.S. Before hitting the road, drivers and their passengers need to buckle up.
“Drivers need to set a good example by wearing their seat belts,” said Julie Lorenz, Kansas Secretary of Transportation.
Studies in Kansas show that if the driver is belted, about 95 percent of all other passengers in the vehicle are properly restrained. If the driver is NOT belted, it’s only 25 percent of the other passengers.
“Seat belts save lives every day,” Lorenz said. "It is easy to do and could save your life.”
The agencies wish all of those traveling during the upcoming holiday, safe travels. If you are in need of help on a Kansas highway, you can call KHP for assistance at *47 (*HP) or *KTA (*582) for the Kansas Turnpike.
As you enjoy your summer travels and celebrate Independence Day, the agencies offer some tips to help you and your family have a blast:
- It’s hot out there so make sure your vehicle is in proper working order for the heat of summer - check fluids, tires, the air conditioning and cooling system.
- When you leave, start off with a full tank of gas and a fully charged phone.
- Plan your route of travel and check www.kandrive.org for construction, and other issues with your travel plans. The site also has links to other states’ travel information. Also give a family member your travel plans.
- As you travel, remember to Move Over for first responders and highway maintenance crews. If you are unable to Move Over, then Slow Down.
- In case of a break down, keep emergency supplies in your car, including bottles of water, a phone charger, and non-perishable food items.
- Ensure everyone in your vehicle is using their seat belt and/or an appropriately-fitted child safety seat.
- Arrange for a designated driver ahead of time if you’ll be consuming alcohol. Do not drink and drive.
- If you’re hosting a party, have non-alcoholic drink alternatives available for designated drivers.
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