WSP Offers Spring Break Travel Tips

With March underway, many folks in school are eagerly eyeing the seven day hiatus, spring break, marked on their calendar coming up. However, with many people hitting the road there are some driving precautions to keep in mind to ensure safe travels.

"State Patrol will always look at emphasis patrols during the spring break time," said Trooper John Bryant with Washington State Patrol. "A lot of it is especially geared toward the Washington State University students using Highway 26, but all the students in the state are involved in it as well."

Trooper Bryant advises to think ahead and take care of the little things with a vehicle prior to starting a road trip. Check lights, wipers, oil and tires prior to traveling.

"This time of year, you might think winter is over but it's not quite over," said Trooper Bryant. "You still get those icy mornings and if you're going over a pass, you never know what it's going to do so make sure you have the right traction for that."

While it is common knowledge to drive the speed limit and stay off electronics, Trooper Bryant reminds folks to also not let traffic dictate one's speed and to stay within the speed limit.

"If you're a student that's just had a long term and you're ready to get home, want to just run and jump in the car and get going or you want to get to your spring break destination for some fun," said Trooper Bryant. "Get some rest before you go."

Troopers will be looking out for distracted drivers which includes being on electronics and sleepy driving along with the usual traffic violations. Stay safe, have a cup of coffee and leave the phone in the console.