GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The Wisconsin Department of Transportation reminds travelers to celebrate safe driving over the Fourth of July weekend.
“We cease construction around noon on Friday, and then we won’t begin again until Tuesday morning. It takes a lot of the equipment off the road,” said DOT Northeast Region Communications Manager, Mark Kantola. “While we do cease most construction at noon on Friday, there are still some detours across the state…Most projects see the orange barrels pulled back. But not all projects, there’s still stuff like lane closures and detours.”
That’s why the usual reminders of buckling up and putting the phone down are followed by another tip – plan ahead.
“Go to 511WI.gov and look at your route to see if there are any traffic impacts,” Kantola told WTAQ News. “There’s nothing worse than driving four hours, getting to your destination, and then realizing that ramp you want to take isn’t available. So just prepare.”
WisDOT offers these other safety reminders:
· Slow down. Posted speed limits apply to ideal travel conditions. Drivers are required to travel at a “reasonable and prudent” speed based on weather and traffic conditions.
· Eliminate distractions and focus on what’s ahead. Texting while driving is prohibited and very dangerous. It is also illegal in Wisconsin for drivers to use a handheld mobile device in work zones.
· Be prepared to move over or slow down when approaching emergency responders including police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance vehicles that are stopped along a highway with their warning lights flashing. A state law signed by Gov. Evers in December 2021 expands this ban to areas surrounding emergency response vehicles with flashing lights. If your vehicle breaks down, try to get safely off the highway, remain buckled up and wait for help to arrive.
All Wisconsin rest areas are open. These facilities offer restrooms and a break from travel.
Again, check 511WI.gov and enter your route to see if there are any detours or closures that may impact your travel plans.
