AAA estimates 53 million Americans will fly or drive more than 50 miles to their destinations this Thanksgiving weekend.

That number is up 13% from last year, and police want to make sure travelers are safe when they hit the road.

Of those 53 million people, 2.5 million New Englanders are expected to hit the road, which AAA says is almost back to pre-pandemic levels.

That means travelers can expect to see extra police on the roadways. AAANortheast, state police and Sen. Tony Hwang together at a press conference Wednesday morning to stress the importance of safe driving.

According to Hwang, fatalities have increased 17% since last year.

State police will have additional troopers on the highways over the next few days.

They'll be cracking down on unsafe driving, including speeding, texting and driving, and drinking and driving.

Drivers should expect more police on local roads too.

Connecticut's bi-annual Click It or Ticket Campaign is also underway. Police departments across the state, including in Westport, are all taking part.

As a reminder, under a new state law that took effect last month, regardless of age, all car passengers must wear a seat belt. Those who don't will be cited. Fines start at $92 for a first offense.

Above all, officials want to make sure that drivers reach their destinations safely.

"I think it's a collaborative effort. If we all take those little steps along the way, it can really make a big difference overall," says Sgt. Dawn Pagan.