Traveling for Labor Day? Don’t forget safety first

Labor Day is around the corner, and that means everyone is making their last summer weekend plans before fall sets in.

The Alabama Department of Transportation and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency are each planning on ensuring travelers get where they’re going in one piece.

ALDOT is putting a halt on temporary lane closures along interstate highways between Friday, Sept. 2 and Monday, Sept. 5.

ALEA is wrapping up its 101 Days of Summer Safety on Labor Day weekend and kicking off its Play Hard, Win Big safety campaign.

“Although Labor Day signals the unofficial end to summer and everyone is easing back into a regular routine, the South has kicked off football season into high gear,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Even if you aren’t a football fan, heavier-than-usual game day traffic is likely to affect you.”

101 Days of Summer Safety focused on Alabama’s roads, waterways and airways from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

But as soon as Labor Day ends, ALEA is putting the focus on Alabama’s primary pastime: football.

“When you first arrive in our state, a common question is, ‘Are you an Alabama or Auburn fan?’ This is just one of the many intense rivalries that occur across our state each year,” Taylor said. “We recognize and understand the anticipation and excitement for fans. It doesn’t matter where you enjoy the exhilaration of the gridiron – as long as you develop a game plan prior to leaving home and celebrate responsibly.”

Expect traffic congestion on game days, Taylor said, and be patient when it’s time to leave the stadium and head home.

“Let’s all do our part to make this a safe Labor Day weekend – and a winning football season for everyone,” he said.

Safety tips for this weekend and beyond include:

• Remain attentive around large vehicles and semitrucks with limited maneuverability and blind spots.
• Expect heavier traffic and adjust your travel plans so you can avoid speeding or other dangerous road behavior.
• Prep your vehicle beforehand by checking tire pressure, brakes, exterior lights, car battery, air filters, wipers and fluid levels and keep an emergency kit available.
• Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you plan on drinking, ensure you have a designated driver or can call for a ride.
• Buckle up and ensure everyone else is, too.
• Don’t follow other vehicles too closely, because it’s one of the leading causes of crashes.

You can find Alabama traffic and road condition information right here. ALDOT also has a traffic app available on iPhone and Android called ALGO Traffic.

Just don’t stare at your phone while you’re driving.