The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) will suspend all temporary lane closures on interstate routes during the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period.
An estimated 81.8 million people will be traveling this Thanksgiving, and AAA estimates 73 million of them will be by car.
“Thanksgiving travel numbers are always impressive because this holiday has become synonymous with heading out of town to spend time with loved ones,” said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. “People are willing to brave the crowds and make last-minute adjustments to their plans to make lifelong memories, whether it’s visiting extended family or meeting up with friends.”
From November 26 to November 30, drivers will be free of temporary road closures due to road construction in Alabama.
“The suspension is to help reduce traffic congestion and improve safety with more people traveling during the holiday,” ALDOT stated. “It also provides a safer environment for maintenance and construction workers.”
ALDOT offered the following travel tips:
· Buckle Up – Increase your chance of surviving a crash by wearing a seatbelt. According to crash reports, in 2024 nearly 60 percent of those involved in fatal crashes on Alabama roadways were not wearing a seatbelt.
· Don’t drive impaired – 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.
· Avoid distracted driving – Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes. Put your phone down and keep your focus on the road. Alabama’s Hands-Free law prohibits drivers from holding a cell phone while driving.
While turkey prices are up this Thanksgiving, rentals and gas are cheaper. The average price per gallon of gas in Alabama is $2.71, approaching a four-year low. Rental companies are charging 15% less this Thanksgiving compared to last year.
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