As holiday travel continues, Action News Now’s Emilio Del Carpio highlighted safety tips for driving in snow, fog, or rain, including slowing down and leaving extra space between vehicles.
CORNING, Calif. – Holiday travel takes on a unique shape for everyone, ranging from short drives to extensive journeys.
Action News Now on Wednesday spoke with travelers about their holiday plans and the precautions they are taking to ensure safety on the road.
Emilio Del Carpio shared some essential tips for safer holiday travel, regardless of the weather. He emphasized slowing down to allow more reaction time to hazards and maintaining extra space between vehicles.
“If you’re driving somewhere that’s particularly snowy, it’s very important to know the ratings of the road. An R1 rating requires chains except for vehicles with snow tires, an R2 rating requires chains except for vehicles with four-wheel-drive, and very importantly, an R3 rating on the road requires chains for all vehicles,” Del Carpio said.
At Love’s Travel Stop in Corning, Del Carpio met retired long-haul truck driver Cheyenne Alexander. Her years of experience on the road have shaped her perspective on road safety.
“Slow down. Just slow down. Pay attention, you know, check your route. Don’t just assume because you’re in California so it’s going to be warm and sunny. Everyone’s got a cellphone now so you can find the weather where you’re going,” Alexander said.
For Alexander, the journey isn’t just about holiday travel. She is heading south to Arizona, seeking warmer weather.
“I’m going to Arizona,” Alexander said. “Because I live in my truck and it’s warmer.” She added that she has been living in her truck for about two months.
Before parting ways, Alexander shared a final piece of advice: never rush just to make up time. She reminded travelers to always trust their instincts, especially when running late to family gatherings or festive reunions.
The California Highway Patrol advises drivers to carry a roadside emergency kit, including essentials like water, blankets, and a phone charger, to stay safe during potential weather-related delays.
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