Work zones, permanent lane closures to remain in place

The upcoming Memorial Day holiday signals the start of summer travel, and the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to be cautious and patient, and to use good judgment when traveling this busy season.

Impaired and distracted driving, excessive speeds and not wearing seat belts are just a few decisions that can take a long weekend from celebratory to deadly.

Over Memorial Day weekend last year, 14 people were killed and 60 were seriously injured in Missouri traffic crashes. These fatalities are almost always preventable by taking simple actions such as wearing a seat belt, putting down your phone and never texting while driving, obeying the speed limits, and never driving impaired.

That all applies in work zones as well, which drivers may see more of in these warmer months. Some of those work zones include permanent lane closures that will remain in place this Memorial Day weekend. Please pay attention and drive safely in work zones. Being a safe, responsible driver saves lives and reduces injuries to our crews and the traveling public. Plan your trip ahead of time and check for work zones on MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org or call our customer service center at 888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636).