Giving thanks for traffic safety

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is teaming up with law enforcement agencies across Iowa to promote road safety during the Thanksgiving holiday season. Drivers can expect to see increased police presence on Iowa roads through November 30, 2025.

As families travel near and far to celebrate, GTSB urges everyone to remember that seat belts are not only the law, they are also your best defense against serious injury or death in a crash. Last year, during Thanksgiving week (November 24-30, 2024), there were 17 fatal or serious injury crashes, including 5 that involved unrestrained occupants. This heartbreak may have been prevented with the simple click of a seat belt.

Additionally, GTSB reminds everyone that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving and to plan for a sober driver before heading out. Impaired driving is more than just drunk driving- it’s drugs as well, and If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.

GTSB collaborates with city, county, state, and local organizations to create and implement strategies aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries on Iowa roads through federally funded grants.

For more tips on safe travel this Thanksgiving, visit Drive Smart Iowa. Be safe and enjoy your holiday!