As Santa Claus prepares to travel from the North Pole on Christmas Eve, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) reminds drivers to practice safe driving habits for everybody on the road, including Santa’s sleigh. Considering the large number of vehicles expected to be on the road beginning this weekend, DOT staff are emphasizing safe lane changes. Merging lanes can be one of the most stressful parts of driving during heavy traffic, and provided tips for motorists heading to holiday gatherings, such as planning merges early, signaling intentions, matching traffic speed, and checking mirrors and blind spots regularly. Drivers are encouraged to stay focused and courteous during the busy holiday season to help prevent accidents. So far in 2024, 335 people have died in Iowa traffic crashes, eight of which occurred in just the last week. In 2023, traffic fatalities totaled 377.
Iowa DOT Stresses Safe Lane Changes As Busy Christmas Travel Season Begins
