by InTrieste
With the summer holiday season underway and traffic volumes expected to surge, the head of the Highway Police in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Dr. Guglielmo Toscano, issued a series of safety recommendations this week aimed at helping motorists travel safely.
First and foremost, drivers are urged to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before setting off. That includes checking tire pressure and fluid levels, as well as properly securing any cargo. Police patrols frequently respond to incidents involving lost loads — occurrences that can result in severe traffic delays or, in more serious cases, accidents.
Equally important, Toscano said, is that drivers be physically and mentally prepared for medium- and long-distance travel. That means getting sufficient rest and avoiding driving immediately after a heavy meal. As always, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains strictly prohibited.
Authorities also stressed the importance of maintaining a moderate speed and keeping a safe following distance, especially in heavy traffic. Drivers are reminded to avoid distractions such as mobile phones or other electronic devices while behind the wheel.
Several highway bottlenecks have been identified as areas of concern, particularly during peak travel times. These include the Trieste Lisert toll station heading toward Trieste, the Ugovizza toll station toward Udine, and the Latisana exit. The entire regional highway network can see traffic volumes reach up to 3,000 vehicles per hour during holiday exodus periods, officials noted.
The Highway Police will maintain an increased presence throughout the summer to assist motorists and help ensure safe travel across the region.
