Two million drivers expected to be on Tennesee roads this week
JACKSON, Tenn. — Millions are expected to hit the roadways in Tennessee during Christmas week. Drivers say they want to take advantage of sinking gas prices. “I didn’t think I’d live to see them go that low again,” Sherry Pirtle said. Gwendolyn Gause, another driver said driving her family across the state is a yearly tradition she will not miss. “I’m so appreciative for the low prices right now because I drive a Denali, and it is definitely a gas guzzler so, yeah I’m appreciating that. That’s a Christmas gift to me,” Gause said. Lieutenant Brad Wilbanks with Tennessee Highway Patrol said there can be downsides to cheap gas on a busy holiday. “As a nation, we’re all glad that gas prices are down but that means more people on the roadways. We’re out there, we’re gong to be doing what we do. It’s our job,” he said. Wilbanks said troopers will maintain a strong presence all week focusing on catching distracted drivers. “If we see you doing it, you will get a ticket and if you’re not driving distracted, wear a seat belt,” Wilbanks said. “Your best defense against a distracted driver is your seat belt.” Still some drivers said despite the dangers on the road, they will take advantage of the opportunity to go further with cheaper fuel. “I don’t get to travel during the holidays, but this year I get to travel because gas is not as expensive,” Pirtle said. AAA said this week 38 million drivers are expected to be on the road, the highest since 2001. TDOT said they will hault all construction starting at noon on December 23 through January 5.
