FORT WAYNE — The Indiana State Police remind drivers that proper planning, preparation and time management are the keys to any successful commute, especially during periods of holiday travel when our roadways are heavily traveled.

Indiana State Police will have additional patrols during the holiday weekend.

Last year in Indiana, the 2018 Thanksgiving holiday period from Nov. 21-24 saw more than 2,100 vehicle crashes across the state. More than 260 of those crashes involved personal injury, and seven involved fatalities, said the news release.

Below are some tips:

• Plan your route ahead of time to include consideration for inclement weather forecasts, areas of road construction, and areas known for heavy congestion, all issues that may increase your travel time and risk associated with operating in heavy traffic.
• Ensure that your vehicle is mechanically sound and up to handling the trip. Sufficient tire tread and proper tire pressures lead not only to better fuel consumption but combined with a proper brake system, these are two of the most important mechanical components contributing to safe vehicle handling.
• As you plan your trip, make sure that you give yourself plenty of extra time so that you don’t find yourself feeling rushed. Drivers up against a time crunch will undoubtedly find themselves more likely to be distracted, and more likely to take risks while driving in order to expedite travel time.