Labor Day Weekend Travel: Expect Delays, Be Safe, and Know Where to Avoid Traffic

Planning on traveling this Labor Day weekend? You’re not alone. With the price of gas lower at this time than it was last year, millions of people are expected to travel this weekend — in the air and on the ground.

If you are driving to your destination, the Utah Department of Transportation and AAA have some advice and tips to help you do it safely and without too much delay.

UDOT released an advisory on Wednesday detailing where drivers can expect delays for Labor Day weekend.

Labor Day Weekend Travel Delays

On Friday, Aug. 30, drivers can plan for delays on:

Northbound I-15 in Davis County: Up to 10 minutes of additional delays from 3-6 p.m.
Southbound I-15 in Salt Lake County: Up to 15 minutes of additional delays from 3-6 p.m.
Southbound I-15 in the Nephi area in Juab County: Up to 20 minutes of additional delays from 3-8 p.m.

On Monday, Sept. 2, motorists can expect delays on:

Northbound I-15 in Juab County/Nephi area: Up to 10 minutes of additional delays from 2-6 p.m.
Westbound US-6 in the Spanish Fork Canyon area: Up to 30 minutes of additional delays from 1-7 p.m.

Additionally, UDOT said it plans to suspend all construction and open all lanes for most projects throughout the state, but certain areas will leave lane restrictions in place. Those areas are:

SR-201 at 3200 West: Traffic will continue to be directed up and down exit ramps as crews replace the bridge deck. Expect delays due to the change in traffic configuration.
Bangerter Highway: Work will pause from Friday at noon through the holiday weekend, but current lane restrictions will remain in place to protect the work zones for the new interchanges at 9800 South, 13400 South, 2700 West and 4700 South.

AAA released a chart of the times they suggest are the best and the worst times to drive over the weekend. They are:

Best Times to Travel

Thursday, Aug. 29: Before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 30: Before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 31: Before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 1: Before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 2: Before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 3: All day

Worst Times to Travel

Thursday, Aug. 29: Between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 30: Between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 31: Between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 1: Between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 2: Between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.

AAA also has some tips for helping you get to your destination safely. They include:

Tips for Safe Labor Day Weekend Travel

Get your car inspected before your trip, and bring an extra set of keys. AAA said that it expects to help some 300,000 drivers over the weekend, with the most common problems being flat tires, dead batteries and being locked out. Get your car checked before your trip and bring a spare set of keys to avoid these problems.
If you do have car trouble, follow these instructions:

If it’s safe, move your car out of the way of traffic.
Turn on your hazard lights.
Call for help. You can call AAA, or if you are a member of another roadside assistance program, call them. If you are not a member, you can call a local tow truck company or the police.

Move over for roadside workers and stranded motorists. If you see emergency lights, hazard lights, or anyone else on the side of the road, slow down and give them room.
Advice to help avoid roadside collisions:

Be aware of your surroundings. This includes looking ahead, looking to the sides, and checking your mirrors frequently.
Be patient. Don't tailgate or try to speed past other cars.
Be courteous. Let other drivers merge into your lane if they need to.
Be prepared for the unexpected. Things like sudden changes in weather or road conditions can happen. Be prepared to slow down or pull over if necessary.

Be Prepared for Traffic and Drive Safely

It's important to remember that traffic is likely to be heavier than usual during Labor Day weekend. Be prepared for delays and be patient. Plan your route in advance, check traffic conditions before you leave, and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

And most importantly, drive safely. Buckle up, avoid distractions, and don't drink and drive. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend.