Caltrans Offers Memorial Day Driving Tips
May 28, 2021 11:15AM PDT
Caltrans is alerting motorists that there will be a moratorium for planned lane closures beginning Friday, May 28, 2021 from 6:00 a.m. through Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Some lane closures that are currently in place will remain for example the State Route 60 Swarm paving project in Ontario and the Interstate 10 Tune Up paving project in Beaumont through Cabazon.
There is an increase in traffic volumes on all state highways. Motorists are recreating and traveling after long months at home due to Covid19 restrictions.
According to the AAA, 37 million American’s will hit the road over the next five days for the Memorial Day holiday – that’s a 60 percent increase from last year in 2020. Historically, traffic congestion before and during holiday weekends exist on Interstate 10 (I-10) between Beaumont and Palm Desert and Interstate 15 (I-15) in the Cajon Pass, Barstow, Baker, and the Nevada state line. Travel is heaviest on Thursday and Fridays exiting the state and then again on Sunday for traffic returning to California.
Motorists should prepare for their trip by checking travel conditions before they go at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/. Ensure that your vehicle is in good running condition, including checking tires and fluids. Also make sure you have a charged cell phone, water, snacks, medications, and a first aid kit. Be alert and have patience for other motorists and expect traffic delays. Plan ahead and check for detours in the event there are unexpected road closures or excessive delays due to emergency situations.
Caltrans reminds motorists that speed limits are reduced in construction zones with double fines. Please do not speed – it can cost you a ticket or someone’s life. Designate a driver if you are under the influence – of anything!
Standard road signs, digital flashing arrows and traffic cones direct all traffic into the left lane on a road construction site.
Photo from Alpha Media USA Portland OR