SAN ANTONIO — Officials are estimating as many as 1-2 million solar eclipse spectators, could visit areas along the pathway of the annular solar eclipse.
DPS Officials are anticipating traffic will be impacted. The agency wants drivers to be aware it's against the law to stop, stand, and park along the highways.
They also say it's dangerous and are asking drivers to get off the roadways to enjoy Saturday's eclipse.
"We want to make sure that people are abiding by the law, and driving safely, so you'll see more officers out on the roadway," said Sgt. Deon Cockrell.
Officials say some drivers could be distracted by the eclipse and not controlling the vehicle and driving in the manner that they should. The large amount of vehicles on the roadways can lead to car crashes and traffic congestion, which could hinder emergency response times and cause dangerous situations for pedestrians.
"There will be people walking to and from their cars and across the roadway, so that's why we really don't want you on the roadway, just for your safety," said Cockrell
Sgt. Cockrell says the safest place to view the eclipse is off the roadways.
"You know go to a parking lot or maybe a field and some places have designated viewing areas," said Cockrell.
If you are parked in an unsafe place, you could get a citation for being illegally parked on the roadway.
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