TRENTON, New Jersey – With Thanksgiving travel fast approaching, New Jersey transportation officials are reminding drivers to get their vehicles ready now for the upcoming winter season. From Newark to Trenton, state agencies are stressing early maintenance and safety checks as the best defense against snow, ice, and holiday travel delays.
According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, early November is the ideal time to winterize vehicles. Drivers are encouraged to inspect tire tread, check fluid levels, replace worn wipers, and test batteries before temperatures drop. Every car should carry a winter emergency kit — including a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, nonperishable snacks, bottled water, and traction material such as sand or kitty litter.
Motorists traveling on the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike, and I-80 should plan for heavy holiday traffic and variable conditions between the coast and interior. “Preparing now means fewer surprises once the season’s first snow hits,” a NJDOT spokesperson said. Drivers are also advised to keep fuel tanks at least half full, pack warm clothing, and ensure cell phones are fully charged before long trips.
NJDOT recommends checking 511NJ.org for live traffic, plow, and closure updates once storms develop. Officials emphasize that early readiness will help reduce roadside emergencies and keep Thanksgiving travelers moving safely through one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
