--Motorists urged to practice safe driving with increased traffic on roadways --
Portland, Maine - Memorial Day weekend marks the kickoff to summer vacation season in Maine. Maine Turnpike Authority expects it to be one of its busiest weekends in years. More than 890,000 vehicles are anticipated to travel the Maine Turnpike over this Memorial Day weekend, an increase of 5.2% from Memorial Day weekend last year. Friday is expected to be the busiest day, with more than 294,000 vehicles; and about 210,000 vehicles are expected to travel the turnpike on Saturday.. From January through April 2015, the turnpike has seen a 3.12% growth in traffic compared to the same period in 2014.
With heavy traffic expected on the road this holiday weekend, the MTA is urging motorists to drive safely and take proper precautions during the summer vacation season. Here are some summer safety driving tips:
· Buckle up. Every Trip. Every Time. - Almost half of Maine’s recent highway deaths involved
drivers and passengers not wearing their seat belts, according to Maine Bureau of Highway Safety. In the past five years, 241 people not wearing their seat belts were killed in Maine traffic crashes.
· Put the Phone Down - All Maine drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. The fine for a first offense is $100. Keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Use voice-activated controls when talking on a cell phone is absolutely necessary.
· Summer is Construction Season in Maine - Make sure to be cautious while traveling through work zones. Obey the posted speeds and watch out for stopped vehicles in front of you. Stay alert, do not get distracted by the construction activity.
· Summer Means Campers and Boats on Our Roads – If you cannot see an RV’s mirrors, then they can’t see you. Travel at a safe distance. If you are hauling a boat or camper, make sure the lights are connected and working properly.
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