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This year, holiday travel is expected to reach record-breaking levels. According to AAA, more than 122 million Americans are projected to travel 50 miles or more during the year-end holiday period, with nearly 90% choosing to travel by car.
When Should You Travel?
Traffic experts with AAA and INRIX consistently find that timing is everything. Drivers who leave early in the day typically experience significantly less congestion than those traveling during afternoon and evening peak periods.
Best Times to Travel
- Before 11 a.m. on most holiday travel days
- Early morning dpartures usually offer lighter traffic and fewer delays
- Thanksgiving Day itself is often one of the lightest traffic days of the holiday week
Worst Times to Travel
- Noon to evening hours, especially on the days immediately before and after major holidays
- The afternoon before Thanksgiving is consistently among the most congested travel periods of the year
- Return-trip Sundays often see heavy traffic throughout the day as travelers head home
So set your alarm and plan to leave early. An early departure may feel inconvenient, but it can save hours of frustration and make your holiday trip much more enjoyable.
Hidden Holiday Hazards
Heavy traffic is only one challenge holiday travelers face. Winter weather (for those travelling outside of Florida), distracted driving, fatigue, and impaired driving all contribute to increased risks on the road.
According to AAA, roadside assistance crews responded to more than 860,000 calls during a recent year-end holiday period for issues such as dead batteries, flat tires, and empty fuel tanks.
Even more concerning, federal safety data cited by AAA shows that impaired driving coninues to play a major role in holiday traffic fatalities. During recent Thanksgiving holiday periods, more than one-third of traffic deaths were linked to drunk-driving crashes.
Five Ways to Arrive Safely
1. Put the Phone Away
Text messages, social media notifications, and GPS adjustments can wait. A few seconds of distraction can have life-changing consequences.
2. Get Plenty of Rest
Drowsy driving can impair reaction times and decision-making. If you're traveling long distances, take breaks every two hours or switch drivers when possible.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle
Before leaving, check:
- Tire pressure and tread
- Battery condition
- Fluid levels
- Windshield wipers
- Fuel level
A quick inspection can prevent an unexpected roadside stop.
4. Slow Down
Holiday schedules can make people feel rushed, but speeding rarely saves significant time. It does, however, increase stopping distance and crash severity.
5. Plan for a Sober Ride
If holiday celebrations include alcohol, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or arrange transportation in advance.
Make Safety Part of the Tradition
Holiday memories should be made around dinner tables, gift exchanges, and family gatherings, not traffic crashes or emergency roadside stops. By planning ahead, leaving early, staying alert, and focusing on safety, travelers can help ensure that everyone reaches their destination and returns home safely.
This holiday season, give yourself the best gift possible: a safe trip. 🚗✈️
| | November Safety Campaigns | | |
Crash Responder Safety Week: (November 2–6) Crash Responder Safety Week is an annual Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) initiative focused on protecting traffic incident responders and educating the public on safe driving behaviors near roadway incidents. In 2026, CRSW continues its mission of promoting safe, quick clearance and reducing secondary crashes. This year's theme emphasizes the importance of driver awareness and compliance with Move Over laws to protect responders working roadside. Remember to Slow Down, Move Over. Lives are on the Line! For more info click here.
National Seatbelt Day: (November 14) National Seat Belt Day, celebrated on November 14th, is a day to raise awareness about the importance of wearing seat belts. It is a vital reminder of how this simple action can make a difference in car accidents.
Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving: On November 25, 2026, the “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving” campaign will run as part of NHTSA’s Thanksgiving-themed safety push, urging drivers to plan for a sober ride home and avoid impaired driving during holiday festivities. More info is available here.
Drug-Impaired Driving: On November 26, 2026, NHTSA’s “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different” campaign will run a targeted Thanksgiving‑themed drug‑impaired driving push, combining seasonal messaging with safety reminders and resources for local and national outreach.
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Bike/Walk Central Florida's Operation Best Foot Forward for Pedestrian Safety Program plays a vital role in improving pedestrian safety across Florida. The initiative is dedicated to increasing the number of drivers who stop for people at crosswalks, with the ultimate goal of creating safer walking environments through proven, data-driven strategies.
The program takes a comprehensive approach to crosswalk safety by combining education, enforcement, engineering, and evaluation. By addressing pedestrian safety from multiple angles, Best Foot Forward helps communities better understand driver behavior, increase awareness of crosswalk laws, enhance visibility for pedestrians, and measure progress over time. The Volusia-Flagler TPO currently provides full funding for the program in Flagler County and also supports its implementation in Volusia County in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).
As part of the program's ongoing efforts, crosswalk selection meetings were recently held in both Volusia and Flagler counties. During these meetings, transportation and local partners reviewed the crosswalks currently being monitored and evaluated, while also identifying locations for future assessment. These evaluations help ensure that resources are focused on areas where safety improvements can have the greatest impact, supporting the program's mission of making every crossing safer for pedestrians.
The program includes data collection at selected crosswalks, outreach events to educate people on the driver yield law, sign-waving events to bring attention to pedestrians crossing at crosswalks, and the coordination of high visibility awareness campaigns involving law enforcement agencies. In 2027, these enforcements will take place during March and July. For more information on Operation Best Foot Forward, go to www.bikewalkcentralflorida.org/best-foot-forward.
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Florida Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP)
The 2026 Florida Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) establishes a statewide framework for eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries on Florida’s roadways. It identifies key safety priorities and focuses on significant investments made to improve safety for everyone who travels in Florida.
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Developed as part of the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) Implementation Element to support a coordinated and comprehensive approach to transportation safety, the SHSP is also informed by and aligned with Florida’s Triennial Highway Safety Plan (3HSP), the Florida State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), and other key policy documents.
As a data-driven, five-year plan, the SHSP outlines Florida’s path toward achieving the goal of zero traffic-related fatalities. The plan focuses on 11 Emphasis Areas that guide statewide safety efforts, including:
- Lane Departures
- Intersections
- Pedestrians & Bicyclists
- Aging Road Users
- Motorcycle & Moped Users
- Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators
- Teen Drivers
- Impaired Driving
- Occupant Protection
- Speeding & Aggressive Driving
- Distracted Driving
In addition, the following six Special Emphasis Areas highlight emerging and critical concerns: Rail Grade Crossings, Work Zones, Roadside Deaths, Animal Strikes, School Children, and Evolving Transportation Modes.
The SHSP embraces the Safe System approach, recognizing that while crashes may occur, they should not result in serious injury or loss of life. This approach prioritizes safer people, safer vehicles, safer speeds, safer roads, and effective post-crash care. Simultaneously, the SHSP reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, involving innovative solutions, safety policies, and emerging technologies to address evolving safety challenges. Through a combination of education, outreach, and enforcement, the plan also works to reduce the risky behaviors that contribute to crashes in the first place, helping create a safer transportation system for everyone.
By addressing roads, people, and behavior, the SHSP provides a strategic approach to improve safety outcomes across Florida while reminding everyone that Target Zero is a shared responsibility.
For more information, click here.
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VoTran Transit Development Plan (TDP) &
Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP)
Major Updates Request for Input
VoTran is in the process of updating its Transit Development Plan (TDP) and Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP). Numerous outreach events are planned over the next year as these two plans are developed. To learn more about the TDP & TDSP process, get more information on the outreach activities go to the Virtual Meeting Room or share your thoughts by taking the 2036 Transit Needs Survey.
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White Cane Safety Day
Highlights Accessibility and Pedestrian Safety
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White Cane Safety Day brought community members together on October 15 to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals who are blind or visually impaired and to highlight the importance of accessibility and pedestrian safety. This event also celebrated the 85th birthday of the Florida Division of Blind Services.
Hosted by the Florida Division of Blind Services in Daytona Beach, the event featured informational exhibits and community resources from organizations including the Volusia-Flagler TPO, VoTran, and the Braille and Talking Book Library. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in hands-on demonstrations showcasing tools and technology that help individuals with visual impairments navigate their surroundings, read, and access information independently.
A special ceremony was held during the event, featuring remarks from leaders and advocates in the blind and visually impaired community. Speakers included Ed James, Bureau Chief; Charles Randall, Human Services Program Consultant II; and featured speaker Ed Hudson, former Bureau Chief, all representing the Career, Technology, and Training Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired. To conclude the ceremony, Trina Travis, Interim Director of the Division of Blind Services, addressed audience.
Following the ceremony, participants took part in an interactive pedestrian crossing experience at the intersection of Dunn Avenue and White Street. With assistance from the Daytona Beach Police Department, which helped ensure a safe environment, participants crossed the intersection while blindfolded and guided by sighted volunteers. The exercise provided a firsthand perspective on the challenges faced by pedestrians who are unable to rely on sight when navigating busy roadways, reinforcing the importance of driver awareness, accessible infrastructure, and safe crossing practices for all road users.
The event served as a powerful reminder that creating safe, accessible communities requires understanding, empathy, and a commitment to meeting the needs of pedestrians of all abilities.
| | Bicycle Safety Presentation Promotes Safe Riding Habits | | |
On October 21, the TPO visited the Pierson Public Library to host a fun and educational bicycle safety program for local children. The event featured a short, age-appropriate bicycle safety video followed by an interactive discussion about safe riding habits, traffic safety rules, and ways to stay safe while biking.
To help put those safety lessons into practice, children were fitted with new bicycle helmets to ensure a proper and comfortable fit. Several parents also received helmets, reinforcing the
| | | important message that children are more likely to wear a helmet when they see their parents setting the example. The event provided families with valuable safety information and the equipment needed to help make every bike ride a safer one. | | |
November Outreach Events
💖 PMR2 Community Care Day
On Thursday, November 12, the TPO is partnering with Progressive Medical Research, Halifax Urban Ministries, Volusia Recovery Alliance, Giving a Reason for Hope, and numerous other agencies to provide a day of care, support, and resources for the unhoused community. We will be handing out high-visibility items like bicycle lights and safety vests to attendees to help pedestrians and cyclists see and be seen. Click here for more information.
🚲 Daytona Beach Library TeenTober Helmet Fitting
TeenTober™ is a nationwide, annual celebration hosted by libraries every October to promote year‑round teen services, highlight new skills, and fuel teens’ passions both inside and outside the library. As TeenTober comes to a close, ten teens will be receiving refurbished bicycles. On Wednesday, November 18, the TPO will be fitting bicycle helmets for the teens who receive the bicycles.
🍖 Bluegrass & BBQ Festival Helmet Fitting
Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 21, and stop by the TPO's booth at the Bluegrass & BBQ Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Reed Canal Park in South Daytona.
Festival-goers will have the opportunity to receive a free bicycle helmet that is custom fitted while learning valuable tips to stay safe on the road, whether walking, biking, or driving. TPO staff will also be on hand to chat with attendees about the organization's role in improving transportation throughout the region. Come enjoy great music, delicious barbecue, and leave with knowledge that could help keep you and your family safe! Click here for more information.
| | * Volusia-Flagler TPO Conference Room, 1540 Cornerstone Blvd., Suite 240, Daytona Beach | |
Volusia-Flagler 2050:
Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
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Your Volusia-Flagler 2050
Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
On September 17, 2025, the Volusia-Flagler TPO Board adopted the 2050 LRTP. This plan outlines the region’s vision for the future of transportation —including roadway, transit, and bicycle and pedestrian improvements—through the year 2050. The Cost Feasible Plan Element of the LRTP prioritizes the transportation projects that can be funded based on projected available resources.
The Volusia-Flagler 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan:
- Identifies future needs and improvements for pedestrian, bicycle, transit, highway, and freight mobility
- Guides the expenditure of transportation funds
- Ensures new transportation improvements meet community values
- Prioritizes transportation projects
- Promotes safe and efficient transportation services
🔗The adopted 2050 LRTP, Cost Feasible Plan Element, and appendices are available at the following link: 2050 LRTP
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Vision Zero Action Plan
Even though we have adopted our Vision Zero Action Plan (VZAP), that doesn't mean we are finished! We are strongly committed to eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries in our community by 2050.
To keep you informed and involved, we have launched an interactive StoryMap — a dynamic tool you can access anytime. Here’s what you’ll find on the StoryMap:
✅ Progress updates
📊 Key performance metrics
🏗 Project milestones
🔎Opportunities for improvement
Our Goal? A safer, more sustainable transportation future for everyone with zero fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.
Your voice and your eyes on this process matter—transparency and collaboration are how we get to zero! Take a look, explore the data, and be a part of what we are doing: StoryMap Link
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Vision Zero is based on the idea that traffic fatalities and serious injuries are preventable, and the only acceptable number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries is zero. Vision Zero requires a fundamental change in how we think about traffic safety and planning. To view the TPO's Vision Zero Action Plan, click the link below:
Vision Zero Action Plan
| | TPO Office Location and Contact Information | | The Volusia-Flagler TPO office is located in the Cornerstone Office Park, located at the southwest corner of LPGA Boulevard and Williamson Boulevard. We are on the second floor of the 1540 Cornerstone building. All TPO Board and advisory committee meetings are held in the conference room at the TPO office (with the exception of the TDLCB, which meets at VoTran). | | TPO Board and Advisory Committee Activities | | Information on TPO Board and advisory committee agendas and meeting locations is available on the TPO website at VFTPO.org, and information on the TPO's community outreach/activities can be viewed at TPO Outreach & Activities. | | | | |
