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Extra Eyes Put On Highways

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By RICH SHOPES

rshopes@tampatrib.com

Published: November 26, 2008

TAMPA - Expect more state troopers on Florida's highways over the Thanksgiving holiday, one of the deadliest times for driving.

Last year during the four-day Thanksgiving period, 46 people were killed on Florida roads, second only to Memorial Day of the six major holidays. Last year, 54 people were killed during the four-day Memorial Day weekend, starting midnight Thursday.

The Florida Highway Patrol is gearing up for the holiday by assigning nearly every trooper, supervisor and special investigator - that's about 1,650 total - to look for speeders and drunken drivers. The extra patrols start this morning and continue until Sunday night.

"The colonel might even be out there," Sgt. Steve Gaskins said, referring to Col. John T. Czernis, the patrol's director.

AAA, meanwhile, predicts slightly fewer drivers will hit the road because of the down economy.

About 2.15 million Florida drivers will make trips of 50 miles or longer over the holiday period, or about 1.5 percent less than last year, according to the auto club. Air travel is expected to be down 8 percent nationally.

Tampa International Airport said it expects about 48,000 air travelers over the holiday, down about 10 percent from last year.

State transportation officials say road construction will be suspended so no lanes will be closed over the weekend. They recommend some tips for motorists:

•Call 511 for traffic updates or visit www.511tampabay .com, which has links to other transportation sites.

•Check you car before traveling, including tires, fluids and brakes.

•Fully charge your cell phone in case of an emergency.

•Leave early to give yourself plenty of time.

Reporter Rich Shopes can be reached at (813) 259-7633.

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