Thanksgiving Travel: Busiest Days, Times On VA Highways

VIRGINIA — Thanksgiving is nearly here, and so are some of the busiest travel days of the year. The Virginia Department of Transportation has lifted some road closures to keep state highways moving, and Virginia State Police are increasing traffic enforcement patrols.

Here are the predictions on the best and worst times for traffic, and the days drivers will be targeted for driving infractions by extra state troopers.

VDOT officials estimate the busiest travel day will be Tuesday from noon to 8 p.m., based on traffic data. Heavy traffic is also expected on Wednesday and Sunday between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., with moderate traffic Saturday between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

VDOT said lane closures on most interstates and major roads will be lifted from noon on Wednesday, Nov. 24, to noon on Monday, Nov. 29. Additionally, construction will be suspended at many highway work zones, according to a news release.

All HOV restrictions on I-66 and rush-hour tolls on the I-66 express lanes inside the beltway will be lifted on Thanksgiving Day.

Also, HOV restrictions and express lane tolls on I-64, I-264, and I-564 in Hampton Roads will be lifted on Thursday.

Virginia State Police will increase patrols as part of Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), according to a news release.

"State police will be increasing its visibility and traffic enforcement efforts during the five-day statistical counting period that begins at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2021, and concludes at midnight Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021," the news release from VSP said.

Related: Best Times To Get Out Of NoVA, DC For Thanksgiving 2021

Virginia State Police Superintendent Gary T. Settle encouraged all drivers to be patient and buckle up.

"Your family wants you to arrive safely and in a frame of mind to enjoy all the holiday has to offer," Settle said in a news release. "Making sure you are driving the posted speed limit, driving for conditions and wearing your seatbelt are the best ways to stay safe on the road, so you can enjoy the holiday.”

VSP also reminds drivers that they must move over for stopped emergency vehicles or service vehicles on the side of the road; if you cannot move over, pass cautiously.

• RELATED: 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

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