It’s the first holiday weekend to kick off summer, and the Highway Patrol is urging motorists to travel safely and be aware of crowded roads.
Captain Tim Hull with the Missouri Highway Patrol reminds motorists to stay safe during their travels this weekend by being aware of an increase in traffic, particularly in recreational areas and vacation spots such as Lake of the Ozarks, Branson, and amusement parks in the St. Louis and Kansas City areas.
However, he says drivers should expect less traffic around schools.
He recommends folks also check their cars before traveling, since they can overheat and possibly break down. Hull says the Patrol often assists travelers who are stranded on the side of the road because of broken belts or hoses. “Hoses that have broken, or belts that have been broken; all those are good things to check before you take off on your trip,” Hull said.
Hull also says it’s a good idea to check the weather before making any travel plans and to keep in mind that road construction also increases during this time of year.
He recommends checking a construction map to save travel time. “At least realize that you’re going to have some wait time in some of those areas, so always check that and see what kind of wait time there is if there possibly could be,” Hull said. And if any alcohol is included in the weekend getaway plans, always have a designated driver available.
The Department of Transportation’s traveler information map is available online at www.MoDot.org.
AUDIO: Mary Farucci reports (1:00)