MARYLAND — Marylanders will be flocking to their favorite vacation spots for the Labor Day weekend.
Now, MDOT SHA officials are gearing up to make sure residents trek their way safely to their destinations.
MDOT has suspended non-emergency lane closures until Tuesday, September 3 to help traffic move smoothly on area roadways during the long weekend. Crews are also adding additional patrols to key locations to help with lane openings following disabled vehicles, crashes or debris in the roadway.
Officials urge drivers returning from the Atlantic Coast beaches to remain on US 50 (Ocean Gateway) and not detour off onto smaller roads. They say US 50 is designed for higher traffic volumes; the local roads are not and quickly become gridlocked.
MDOT SHA provided a list of safety tips travelers should keep in mind while on the road:
• Buckle up! It’s the law. All seats, all ages, all the time – yes, even the backseat
• Don’t drive after drinking. Designate a sober driver
• Park the cell phone and mobile device and pay close attention to the road ahead
• Get plenty of rest before hitting the road
• Take activities and snacks for kids to keep them occupied
• Have alternate routes planned in case you encounter a road closure from a collision
• Travel at the posted speed limit.
