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The midterm elections are here and a large voter turnout is expected across Western New York.

The Erie County Board of Elections says there's been a steady stream of voters all day, with about 50 percent of the 600,000 registered voters in the county already casting their ballots. They're expecting a higher turnout than in recent midterm elections, with some precincts expected to see 80 to 90 percent turnout before the night is over. 

As a whole, voter turnout in Erie County could be 60 to 70 percent by the end of the night. 

More than 20,000 absentee ballots for this electdion, double the 2014 midterms, officials said. 

With all members of the House of Representatives up for election, in addition to the governor, lieutenant governor and plenty of local races, polling places are likely to be busy.

Here's four things voters should know before hitting the poles Tuesday.

Where do I go to vote?

Polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.  Not sure of your polling location? Find out here

Keep in mind, if there's a large turnout, voters might be required to wait before casting their ballots. The Board of Elections say polling places will be staffed at levels similar to a presidential election year but voters are urged to go the polls in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon if possible. Early morning, lunchtime and after work will be the busiest times for voting.

 

What do I need to vote?

If you've properly registered with your driver's license number and the last four of your social security number: nothing! You'll just sign a book, have your signature verified, and be on your way.

If your voter registration is missing this information, or you are unsure, you can bring those forms of identification to be safe.

 

How can I vote if I don't have a car?

Luckily there are many resources available to those without a means of getting to the polls themselves.

Ride-sharing companies are also getting in on the Election Day spirit. Uber is offering $10 off with promo code VOTE2018. Make sure you have the most recent version of the app, and enter the promotional code in their payment section. Also make sure you have the cheapest ride option selected for the promotion to apply.

Lyft says they're giving up to 50% off for rides to the polls. Just go here and enter your zip code for a promo code that can be entered in their app. 

But buyer beware: these codes do not have anything to do with getting a ride back from the polls.

 

Where can I go to learn more about my candidates?

Spectrum News has everything you need to do any last minute research about your candidates. Check out our 2018 Voter Decision Guide here! And of course, stay with us Tuesday for the latest in election coverage.