Thursday, August 28, 2008

ADOT Offers Labor Day Travel Road Safety Tips

Drivers who plan to head out on the state’s highways over the Labor Day holiday weekend will get a break from improvement-related closures. No construction closures are scheduled by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) on Phoenix area freeways or other highways across the state through the Monday holiday.

"It's been a busy summer and we have made substantial progress improving highways across the state to build safer connections for everyone," said ADOT Director Victor Mendez. "This weekend, many of us will take to the road to enjoy this final long weekend of the summer. ADOT wants to help everyone driving in or through Arizona to reach their destinations safely."

"Drivers hold the key to safety. We're working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Governor's Office of Highway Safety to urge drivers to be patient and use caution both this weekend and during the fall travel season," Mendez said.

Ten people were killed in crashes on Arizona’s roads and highways during Labor Day weekend last year. ADOT and law enforcement agencies throughout the state are asking drivers and passengers to buckle up and observe the following safe driving tips:

1. Allow extra travel time and be patient.
2. Observe speed limits, including lower speeds in work zones.
3. Check your vehicle before traveling, including tire pressure.
4. Be prepared for an unscheduled closure; bring extra supplies, including water.
5. Get a good night’s rest before driving.
6. Think ahead; arrange for a designated driver and never drive impaired.

While there are no scheduled closures for this coming weekend, drivers should be aware of existing improvement project work zones around the state, including I-10 west of Phoenix, I-10 in Tucson, State Route 179 to Sedona and I-17 north of Phoenix.

Drivers can get the latest information about highway restrictions via ADOT’s Travel Information site or by calling 5-1-1.