Thanksgiving is a busy travel weekend, so it pays to be prepared before traveling.

 The peak travel times this weekend are projected to be on Sunday morning as people head home from their holiday road trips. With wintry weather forecast across large parts of the state this weekend, it pays to make sure the car is ready before hitting the road.   Here are a few tips to make a winter car trip go smoothly. First, check wiper blades and make sure the wiper fluid is full. Also, check the oil and anti-freeze levels. Check the battery and tire air pressure. Look for the proper tire pressure in your owner’s manual or the tire information sticker in the driver’s door jamb.  Pack an emergency road kit. Make sure to include jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries, flares or triangles, a warm blanket, an ice scraper, a first-aid kit, drinking water and snacks, and a tow strap. Take extra winter gear like coats, gloves, hats and boots. Have emergency phone numbers handy and use extra care when driving.

 Almost a half million Kansans will be traveling by car at some point during this long holiday weekend. Winter weather may be an issue and deer can always be an issue. Shawn Steward with Triple-A Kansas says deer are very active at this time of year and pose a serious danger to drivers.

If a collision occurs, move the vehicle to the roadway's shoulder. Then, if possible, call law enforcement – K-H-P dispatch at *47, the Kansas Turnpike Authority at *KTA or local law enforcement at 911. Turn on vehicle hazard lights, whether it is day or night. Remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened to be better protected. Contact your insurance complany to report any damage.

 Anyone involved in a collision with a deer or other animal resulting in personal injury or damage of more than $1000 is required to immediately report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency.