Texas holiday travel and winter weather preparedness: TxDOT, AAA urge people to drive safe

AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas Department of Transportation is urging people to be safe on the road this holiday season. 

While there's no bad weather on the way in Central Texas, they say they're ready for winter conditions in the coming months. 

The Thanksgiving holiday travel season begins Tuesday.

Holiday travel in Texas

What they're saying:

AAA expects 5.8 million Texans will travel and 90 percent of those will be on the road. 

Unfortunately, it's been 25 years since there was a day without a death on Texas roadways. 

"That equates to more than 90,000 mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, children, friends, family, and lives that have just been senselessly lost in preventable crashes over the past 25 years," Tucker Ferguson, Austin district engineer for TxDOT, said.

If you see flashing lights, move over a lane or slow down 20 miles per house below the speed limit — it's the law. 

"This law is so important, it saves lives, but it only works when every driver takes it seriously," Daniel Armbruster with AAA, said.

TxDOT's HERO Program can do tire changes and roadside assistance on the highway. You can call 512-974-HERO or 311. You can view their coverage area and hours here.

Even if you can change your own tire, they can help with traffic control. 

"If it's ever seemed like it's too dangerous to do on your own, call a tow truck. I'd rather pay for a tow than a funeral," Joey Campbell with the TxDOT HERO Program said. 

Winter weather preparedness

Big picture view:

It may be too early to think about snow in Central Texas, but TxDOT says they're prepared. They have five snowplows and have tripled their supply of brine, which melts ice. They have 270 crew members ready to go. 

TxDOT used to not have any slow plows in Austin. They had to use other equipment to move snow back during the 2021 winter storm. After that, the Amarillo district was getting rid of some of their plows, so Austin took them on. 

If there is bad weather, stay home or drive with the conditions. 

"I often say it's okay in the wintertime to go 35 on 35," Ferguson said. 

No matter what time of year it is, avoid distractions, never drink and drive, and buckle up. 

"Texans look out for one another on and off the road. A little kindness and care behind the wheel can go a long way to make our roads safer for everyone," Ferguson said.