BIRMINGHAM, Alabama – With Thanksgiving travel fast approaching, Alabama officials are reminding drivers to ready their vehicles now for the upcoming winter season. From Birmingham to Montgomery, transportation leaders are urging motorists to take advantage of early November’s mild weather to perform safety checks and pack essentials before colder air and heavy holiday traffic arrive.
According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, now is the right time to inspect tires, check battery life, top off antifreeze, and replace wipers. Officials also recommend assembling a basic emergency kit — including a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction aids like sand or kitty litter — even in areas that rarely see snow.
Drivers planning long Thanksgiving routes on I-65, I-20, and I-85 should keep gas tanks at least half full and allow extra time for heavier travel. “Freezing rain and black ice can develop quickly in Alabama when cold fronts move in,” an ALDOT spokesperson said. “A few minutes of preparation can prevent hours of trouble later.” Officials also urge travelers to dress warmly, keep phones charged, and check ALGOtraffic.com for live updates on road conditions and construction zones.
With holiday travel increasing statewide, ALDOT emphasizes that early readiness helps ensure safe, smooth trips for families heading across Alabama as winter driving season begins.
