MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The holiday season is in full swing and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is taking measures to ensure the safety of both travelers and construction workers on the state's roadways. As families gear up for Christmas and New Year celebrations, ALDOT announces a unique initiative to ease the journey for millions of drivers.
From Friday, December 22, 2023, at 6 p.m. until Monday, January 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., ALDOT will implement a temporary pause on all lane closures. This move aims to accommodate the anticipated surge in holiday travel, with AAA predicting a 2.2% increase in the number of Americans hitting the roads compared to the previous year—totaling 115 million travelers.
While construction zones will be inactive during this period, ALDOT advises motorists to still look for work zone materials. Reduced speed limits will still be enforced in certain areas. In light of these precautions, drivers are encouraged to allocate extra time for their journeys and prioritize safety on Alabama's highways.
The importance of wearing seat belts cannot be overstated, and Allison Green, the Drive Safe Alabama Coordinator, shares their life-saving potential.
“We want everyone to get to their holiday celebrations safely, and wearing a seat belt while traveling is the best thing you can do to save your life if you are in a crash,” Green said. “Most crashes occur within 25 miles of the driver’s home. So, it is crucial to buckle up, every trip, every time.”
ALDOT further offers holiday travel tips to enhance safety:
Buckle Up - Prioritize your safety by wearing a seatbelt, significantly increasing your chances of surviving a crash. According to crash reports from 2022, over 56% of individuals involved in fatal accidents on Alabama roadways were not wearing seat belts.
Plan a Sober Ride - Never compromise on safety; it is never acceptable to drink and drive. Designate a sober driver, arrange for a ride service, or call a taxi for a safe journey home.
Check Your Route - Before embarking on your journey, stay informed about Alabama traffic and road conditions by visiting ALGOtraffic.com or downloading the updated ALGO Traffic app.
To make holiday travel less stressful, ALDOT has launched a new version of the ALGO traffic app and website. This update promises an enhanced user experience, providing personalized information to help travelers avoid roadway congestion. Features include the "Know Before You Go" trip planner, detailed traffic event information, and personalized traveler alerts. Travelers are encouraged to download the ALGO Traffic app or visit ALGOTraffic.com to explore the updates and subscribe to personalized alerts, ensuring a safer and smoother holiday travel experience for all.
