GEORGIA – To ease traffic congestion statewide during the Labor Day holiday weekend, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is suspending interstate highway construction-related lane closures from noon Friday, Sept. 1 until 5 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5.

“Labor Day weekend is the last holiday of the summer and we expect heavy traffic statewide,” Georgia DOT State Construction Engineer John D. Hancock said. “We are limiting construction and associated lane closures to make travel to Georgia’s lakes, parks and attractions easier and safer for all.”

The Department reminds travelers to exercise caution as crews may still work in proximity to state highways; safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures to remain in place. Also, incident management or emergency, maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary at any time on any route.

“During heavy travel holidays, we typically see an increase in roadway fatalities. Let’s make this Labor Day weekend atypical,” Hancock said. “I urge drivers to slow down, drive alert and eliminate distractions. Buckle up, put down the cell phone and do not drive impaired. Focus on driving.”

In the event of a crash or breakdown, GDOT advises motorists to never get out of the car on a freeway, unless your life is in imminent danger. If possible, pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights and stay seat-belted in the vehicle with the doors locked.

For HERO assistance in metro Atlanta or CHAMP service on highways in other regions, call 511.