LANSING, Mich. — More than 3 million Michiganders are traveling for the holidays.
And on Christmas Eve, police are makings sure everyone's trip is a safe one. Because of this, you'll see more police out on the roads, and probably more drivers, too, with gas prices the lowest they've been in years.
"For the holiday travel, we do see an increase in traffic. Everybody traveling with the gas prices being low, people go out on their trips," said Michigan State Police Sgt. Rene Gonzalez.
And drivers were taking notice of the low prices, too.
"I think it helps people that actually can afford to move, or go somewhere, now they can afford to go somewhere," Bob Sefcik said.
Besides gas, people who were hitting the road were stocking up on a few other things for the long drive ahead.
"I'm going to Marquette. We just kind of stock up on food for the drive. Snacks and stuff," Jeremiah Kenney said.
With the increase of cars on the road, police say there are some things you should keep in mind.
"With the holidays, you find people are trying to get to their destinations, you've got your family in the car, all the presents. There's nothing worse than driving up on a crash and seeing presents and injured people. So that's why we're telling people in the holidays to take your time, give yourself a little bit more time, leave early. That way, that sort of thing doesn't happen. We want everyone to get to their destination safely and enjoy their holiday weekend," Gonzalez said.
And drivers had some advice too.
"Just be a defensive driver. Don't always assume that people are going to know what you're doing, so you got to watch what everyone else is doing," Sefcik added.
State Police say they see an increase in crashes this time of year, so don't text and drive, be diligent, and don't drink alcohol and drive.
