NASHVILLE, Tennessee – As Thanksgiving approaches, Tennessee officials are reminding drivers to prepare vehicles now for winter weather and heavy holiday travel. From Nashville to Knoxville, state transportation leaders say a few simple checks and safety steps can make a major difference once colder air and mountain snow return later this month.
According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation, November is the best time to winterize vehicles before icy conditions arrive. Drivers should check tire tread, test batteries, replace wipers, and top off antifreeze. Officials also recommend keeping a winter emergency kit in every vehicle — with blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and traction material such as sand or kitty litter.
Motorists planning Thanksgiving trips along I-40, I-75, or I-24 should prepare for heavier traffic and variable weather between the Tennessee Valley and the Cumberland Plateau. “Whether you’re driving across the state or just a few miles, being ready for cold or snow is essential,” a TDOT spokesperson said. Drivers are urged to keep at least half a tank of gas, pack warm clothing, and check TDOT SmartWay for real-time traffic and road conditions.
Officials emphasize that early preparation helps reduce breakdowns and roadside emergencies, ensuring smoother and safer travel for families heading across Tennessee during the Thanksgiving rush and the start of the winter driving season.
