The Thruway Authority again this year will offer free coffee or hot tea at all of its 27 travel plazas from 11 p.m., Friday, December 31 through 7 a.m., Saturday, January 1, according to a piece posted from a TA press release at Mid Hudson News Network today. "Drowsy driving is a major contributor to highway accidents," said Thruway Authority Executive Director Michael Fleischer. "This New Year's Eve tradition, in partnership with Thruway's vendors, is intended to remind motorists to take breaks to prevent drowsy driving on the Thruway and other roadways." Safety officials recommend taking a break from driving every 100 miles or every two hours," added New York State Police Troop T Commander Major Robert Meyers. "It's a good time to enjoy the hospitality of the Thruway vendors." Travelers are advised to never stop along the shoulder of the road, unless it is a true emergency.