(Black PR Wire) TALLAHASSEE – The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects 54.3 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more away from home this Thanksgiving, a 4.8 percent increase over last year. Among the top 10 Thanksgiving destinations listed by the AAA, Orlando comes in as the number one destination spot, and Miami is also listed at number 10. 

In addition, Floridians are expected to travel a lot on the state’s roadways during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, according to AAA. The majority of travelers plan to leave Wednesday, November 21st, and return on Sunday, November 25th, which could result in heavy traffic on major roadways throughout the state.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) encourages travelers to check the Florida 511 Advanced Traveler Information System (FL511) to get the latest information on traffic conditions on Florida roads. This information includes congestion, construction, incidents, severe weather, and much more on Florida’s interstates, toll roads and other major metropolitan roadways.

There are numerous convenient ways for motorists to receive traffic updates:  

• Visit the FL511.com website, with interactive roadway maps showing traffic congestion and crashes, travel times and live traffic camera views.  Some sections are in Spanish.
• Download the FL511 mobile apps available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.
• Follow one of the 13 statewide, regional or roadway-specific feeds on Twitter.

FDOT reminds all travelers to check FL511 before driving. Once on the road, a passenger can check traffic conditions while the car is moving by using the app.  If driving alone, the driver can check FL511 once parked in a safe spot. Here are some Thanksgiving travel safety tips to consider:

Before leaving:

• Go online to the FL511.com website and plan out your trip. The website provides an estimated arrival time, up to three routes to choose from, and shows current road and severe weather conditions. Know before you go!
• Leave ample time to arrive at your destination, and expect increased traffic and possible delays during the holidays.

During the trip:

• If you need to check FL511, either pull over and stop in a safe area (such as a rest stop), or have a passenger in the car check the app.

• During long trips, avoid drowsy driving by making regular stops and rotating drivers, if possible. 
• Always wear a safety belt.
• Don’t drink and drive.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the FL511 team urge Floridians to use the Florida 511 Advanced Traveler Information System (FL511) for a safer and more efficient journey through the Thanksgiving holiday. FL511 provides the most up-to-date information on traffic and travel conditions on major roads and in larger metropolitan areas throughout the state.  Motorists can also view live roadway cameras showing traffic conditions on their route.  FDOT encourages Florida motorists to take advantage of the Florida 511 Advanced Traveler Information System before traveling this Thanksgiving holiday season.  

For more information, visit www.FL511.com or download the app from the Apple App or Google Play stores.  

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