EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — El Paso and the rest of Texas will experience a solar eclipse on Monday, April 8.
And with it, motorists can expect packed roads and distracted drivers, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
More than 1 million people are expected to travel through Texas to witness the rare total solar eclipse, according to TxDOT.
Motorists should expect major delays and allow for extra travel time. They should also plan to arrive at their destinations early, stay put during (and after) the eclipse on Monday, drive with extreme caution and avoid any distractions when they’re behind the wheel, according to TxDOT.
In 2023, there were 94,220 distracted driving-related crashes in Texas, resulting in nearly 400 deaths and 2,700 serious injuries, according to TxDOT.
Here are some safety tips for driving on Monday before, during and after the eclipse.
Give driving your full attention. Any distraction is dangerous, whether it’s the eclipse, your phone or anything else that takes your eyes or mind off the road.
Put your cell phone down, turn it off, or use your phone’s settings to block texts and calls while driving.
Expect heavy traffic and sudden stops by drivers.
Be on alert for distracted pedestrians looking to the sky.
Keep your headlights on while driving, even in the daylight.
Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving.
Find a safe, designated space to park before the eclipse. Don’t stop in the middle of the road or on a road shoulder. Only view the eclipse once safely parked away from the flow of traffic.
For more information, visit TxDOT’s eclipse page: https://www.txdot.gov/discover/texas-eclipse-2024.html
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