This Friday is, well, Black Friday and locals across the Historic Triangle will put their Thanksgiving leftovers in the fridge and head out to the stores for some deals.
Some of them, at least.
And that only means one thing: roads near retail locations can become packed and in some cases dangerous.
James City County Police Deputy Chief Steve Rubino said areas with most significant traffic impacts are typically Richmond Road, Monticello Avenue, Route 199, and Interstate 64.
To help with the influx of shoppers, Rubino said off-duty officers have been hired for the area around Premium Outlets to create smoother traffic patterns and promote security throughout the weekend.
Drivers should remember that parking is not permitted in neighborhoods next to the outlets.
Even with the extra help, there are precautions motorists can take to avoid any kind of incident.
First, Rubino suggested motorists make sure in advance they have extra time to get to their destination and plan for the possibility of delays. Planning ahead helps prevent drivers from speeding and being distracted while behind the wheel.
“Tickets may be issued for speeding violations as well as others and in particular those violations that contribute to a crash,” Rubino said in an email. “Motorists should make sure that they are not parking in areas that are prohibited and posted by signage to avoid receiving a parking ticket.”
Parking lots can also be dangerous. Rubino said both motorists and pedestrians should be alert when traveling through parking lots, especially because as they become more full, drivers will spend a longer time having to search for a spot.
Rubino suggested carpooling or using public transportation.
In addition, theft from vehicles can be an issue during Black Friday shopping so Rubino said drivers should remember not to leave any valuables or items they’ve bought in plain view inside of a vehicle. He recommended that car doors be locked at all times when leaving a vehicle unattended.
