The Alabama Department of Transportation is taking extra precautions to help drivers remain safe this holiday, after 2016 data showed a 44 percent spike in fatalities during the holidays.

AAA is predicting the highest year-end travel volume on record, and ALDOT is reminding travelers to have patience and drive responsibly this holiday season.

To ease holiday traffic congestion statewide and as an added safety precaution, the Alabama Department of Transportation is announcing there will be no temporary lane closures on Alabama interstates from noon, Fri., Dec. 22, through midnight, Mon., Dec. 25, and after noon, Fri., Dec. 29, through midnight Mon., Jan. 1.

“During the 2016 Christmas and New Year holidays, fatalities on Alabama roads were up 44 percent over the previous year,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama Coordinator with ALDOT.

“Reversing that trend in 2017 is in the hand of drivers, as they make safety a priority while out enjoying their holiday celebrations.”

 

Top 3 Holiday Highway Safety Tips

Drive sober.

In December 2016, there were 781 people in the United States that lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes.

Always wear a seat belt, including passengers in front and rear seats.

The odds greatly favor those wearing a seat belt. The latest data shows that about 60 percent of Alabamians who die in vehicle crashes are not buckled up. In comparison, about 98 percent of people involved in vehicle crashes that are unharmed were reported to have been wearing their seat belts.

Put away cell phones and other distractions.

Drivers are 23 times more likely to be in a crash if they are texting and driving.