Thanksgiving is approaching, and with a higher volume of traffic on Iowa roadways, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminds travelers to drive with caution to keep themselves and others safe. 

Seat belt use is at the forefront of this safety campaign. During the 2021 Thanksgiving holiday, 361 vehicle occupants were killed, with nearly half not wearing a seat belt. Law enforcement officials also remind motorists to avoid impaired driving. From 2017 to 2021, over 830 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver. Impaired driving includes THC or marijuana products as well. Extra law enforcement will be on patrol this holiday weekend, ensuring that the laws of the road are being followed.

Additionally, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office encourages travelers to update their emergency contacts to their driver’s license record. This allows law enforcement to be able to contact your family and friends should a traffic incident occur. To update your information, click here.