Whether you’re traveling across the state or across town, WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman emphasizes that safe holiday travel starts with simple steps, buckle up, avoid distractions, drive sober, and plan ahead.  She urges travelers to allow extra travel time, slow down, and stay alert for changing road and weather conditions, particularly as winter weather is predicted and moves into much of the state.

Door County travelers should also take note of ongoing highway construction in surrounding counties that may affect their route.  Projects on I-41 between Appleton and Green Bay, I-43 in Rock County, and several bridges in Winnebago, Milwaukee, and Columbia counties may include lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and temporary closures.  WisDOT encourages drivers to “know before you go” by checking real-time traffic updates through the free 511 Wisconsin app, 511wi.gov, or by calling 511.

Additional safety reminders include moving over for emergency vehicles, planning breaks to stay alert, and having a charged smartphone with emergency contacts updated.  Drivers encountering crashes should move vehicles out of traffic when safe to do so.  WisDOT Safety Patrol vehicles will be on duty along major highways to assist motorists and manage incidents in construction zones.