MONTGOMERY, Ala. – With peak holiday travel season underway, the Alabama Department of Transportation is anticipating higher than average traffic volumes on Alabama roadways. To ensure the safety of the traveling public and construction and maintenance workers, ALDOT will have no temporary lane closures from Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at 6 p.m. until Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.

Although ALDOT construction work zones will not be active during the holidays, there will be some work zone materials along the road and reduced speed limits will be in effect in many areas. Drivers taking to Alabama roads for the Christmas and New Year holidays should allow extra time to reach their destination. AAA predicts 115 million Americans to travel over Christmas and New Year’s, an increase of 2.2 percent from last year.

“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,” says Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama Coordinator. “Most crashes occur within 25 miles of the driver’s home. So, it is crucial to buckle up, every trip, every time.”

ALDOT Holiday Travel Tips:

Buckle Up – Increase your chance of surviving a crash by wearing a seatbelt. According to crash reports, in 2022 over 56 percent of those involved in fatal crashes on Alabama roadways were not wearing a seatbelt.

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 to ensure a safe journey home.

Check Your Route – Before hitting the road, check Alabama traffic and road conditions at ALGOtraffic.com or by downloading the updated ALGO Traffic app.

ALDOT has launched a new and updated version of its ALGO traffic app and website. This update provides an enhanced user experience by offering personalized information to help travelers avoid roadway congestion. It is sure to make holiday travel a bit less stressful with features such as the “Know Before You Go” trip planner, enhanced traffic event information and personalized traveler alerts. Download the ALGO Traffic app or visit ALGOTraffic.com to learn more about the updates and to subscribe to those personalized alerts.