MONTGOMERY – The number of vehicles on Alabama’s interstates is expected to be higher than normal as Memorial Day Weekend officially kicks off the summer travel season. This weekend, drivers should plan for increased traffic and allow extra time to reach their destination.
For the safety of the traveling public, construction industry workers and maintenance crews, the Alabama Department of Transportation will have no temporary lane closures on any interstates after noon, Friday, May 26, through midnight, Monday, May 29.
Risky Behaviors Contribute to Fatal Crashes
“With the increased number of vehicles on the road during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, there is no room for risky or aggressive driving,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator, ALDOT. “Heavy traffic calls for extra patience and a commitment to focus on the road without the distractions of cell phones and other devices.”
Speeding and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol are the two most dangerous behaviors involved in fatal crashes. (See Alabama Crash Facts for more crash data.)
On average, less than one percent of crashes end in a fatality. However, the proportion of fatal crashes involving motorists driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol was almost eight times that in 2015.
“Designating a sober driver before drinking is key to preventing these deadly crashes,” said Green. “Having all occupants, front and rear seats, in a vehicle wear a seat belt is the best defense if there is a crash.”
Motorists planning their holiday travel route can find Alabama traffic and road condition information at www.ALGOtraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app available online in the Apple App Store and on Google Play. ALDOT asks motorists to use ALGO Traffic responsibly. Drivers should never text, tweet, or use a mobile device while operating a vehicle.
About the Alabama Department of Transportation
ALDOT’s mission is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally and economically sound transportation network across Alabama. For further information, visit www.dot.state.al.us.
About Drive Safe Alabama
Drive Safe Alabama is ALDOT’s branded traffic safety marketing campaign. The goal of Drive Safe Alabama is to strengthen Alabama’s highway safety culture. By providing safe driving information through online resources and educational opportunities, ALDOT aims to reduce crash-related injuries and fatalities on Alabama’s roadways. Learn more at DriveSafeAlabama.org.