ALDOT: Road update for Fourth of July holiday travel

Slow Down, Buckle Up and Stay Safe

As an added precaution during the heavily traveled Fourth of July holiday, the Alabama Department of Transportation is doing its part for road safety by having no temporary lane closures on Alabama interstates after noon on Friday, July 1 through midnight, Monday, July 4.

Although ALDOT construction work zones will not be active during the holiday, there will be some work zone materials along the road and reduced speed limits will be in effect in many areas. Drivers taking to Alabama roads for the Fourth of July holiday should allow extra time to reach their destination. AAA predicts car travel volume during the Independence Day holiday weekend will break previous records.

“Drivers should prepare to safely navigate the busy roads during the Independence Day holiday, as travelers drive to and from Alabama beaches, lakes and other popular summer destinations,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator, ALDOT. “Have a travel plan, buckle up and pay attention.”

Busy roads often mean that law enforcement and emergency responders are busy working along the roadway. Alabama’s Move Over law requires motorists to move over and slow down when approaching these vehicles with flashing lights on the side of the road.

ALDOT offers these holiday travel tips:

• Buckle up. Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Seat. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up and in age and size-appropriate car seats or seat belts.
• Avoid Risky Behaviors.  Don’t text or drive distracted; obey posted speed limits and always drive sober. Both alcohol and drugs can impair the skills critical for safe and responsible driving such as coordination, judgment and reaction time.
• Slow down. Speeding is the leading contributing factor in fatal crashes on Alabama roads.

More safe driving tips are available on the Drive Safe Alabama Facebook page.