MoDOT says motorists aren’t in the clear this spring

Wednesday marks the official end to a relentless winter season that brought numerous snow and ice storms and accompanying hazardous road conditions. Although the threat of winter weather might be diminishing, the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging motorists to drive each day like it’s a snow day.

“Smart drivers use extra caution in wintry conditions. They stay alert and tend to avoid risky driving behaviors such as texting or engaging in any activities that may distract them while driving,” said State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Nicole Hood. “Let’s maintain these safe driving habits year round so we can save lives and move toward zero deaths on our highways.”

Ice and snow may be a threat of the past, but springtime is the start of a busy construction season. MoDOT reminds drivers to:

· Be alert to moving work zones, including striping and mowing operations, as well as lane closures and fixed construction sites.

· Take it slow. Pay attention to posted speed limits in work zones and be prepared to stop.

· Buckle Up. This is your best defense in any crash. In 2018, 62 percent of vehicle occupant fatalities were not wearing a seat belt.

· Phone Down. Distracted driving remains the leading cause of work zone crashes in Missouri.

With increases in traffic and road work, it’s imperative drivers minimize distractions inside the vehicle. Since 2014, cellphone-related crashes in Missouri have increased by 35 percent. A recent AT&T study indicates nearly nine in 10 individuals engage their smartphone while driving, and MoDOT wants to remind drivers of the importance of giving the road your full attention.

“Thank you to the thousands of people who have taken the Buckle Up Phone Down challenge,” Hood said. “Together, we can make a difference. Let’s keep the movement alive and challenge others to sign up at www.modot.org/bupd.”

To help make your travel safer year round, visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www.traveler.modot.org/map and find out what work zones and traffic impacts you’ll encounter before you go. You can also download the map to your mobile device for free from iTunes or Google Play.