With extra motorists on the road during the holidays, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles’ is urging drivers to use caution. Last year between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, there were 2,253 crashes in Virginia which resulted in 1,005 injuries and 21 fatalities.

“Being a responsible driver should be a priority every time you get behind the wheel, not just during the holidays,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “It is up to us to keep each other safe on the commonwealth’s roads. Slow down, buckle up, pay attention and drive sober.”

The DMV offered the following safe driving reminders ahead of the holidays.

Prepare before you go. Make sure your car is safe for winter driving; check the oil, put air in the tires and pack an emergency kit.Drive distraction-free. Many distractions exist while driving, but cell phones are a top distraction; put it away and just drive.Slow down. Do not exceed the speed limit and keep a s...