BALTIMORE, MD – Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer and millions of Maryland motorists will head to the Eastern Shore for the extended holiday weekend. As such, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will add additional patrols and suspend non-emergency lane closures in major metropolitan areas to keep traffic moving.
Motorists are encouraged to “Leave Early and Stay Late” during the long holiday weekend to avoid major congestion to and from the Eastern Shore and Western Maryland. Another way to avoid congestion is to adjust drive times and travel during late night or early morning hours.
It is extremely important for Eastern Shore travelers to remain on US 50 (Ocean Gateway). Only local traffic should travel on MD 8 (Romancoke Road) or MD 18 (Main Street) in Queen Anne’s County.
As temperatures continue to climb, it’s very important to ensure vehicles are in good working order. MDOT SHA suggests starting from the ground up for visual inspections. Look over tires to ensure that there are no signs of damage or excessive wear and that the tread is adequate, and the tire inflation is at the manufacturer’s recommended limits.
Also check the cooling system as a coolant system breakdown can lead to very extensive and expensive engine damage. Also check belts, hoses and ensure there is plenty of gas in the tank.
MDOT SHA also provides the following tips to keep travelers safe while traveling:
• Buckle up! It’s the law. All seats, all the time – yes, even the backseat;
• If a vehicle becomes disabled, pull as far off the road as possible, activate hazard lights and dial #77;
• Don’t drive after drinking. Designate a sober driver;
• Park the cell phone and mobile device and pay close attention to the road ahead;
• Get plenty of rest before hitting the road; and
• Travel at the posted speed limit.
Know Before You Go. Before you travel, please visit md511.maryland.gov for real-time travel and forecast information and 1-877-Bay-Span (229-7726) for real-time Chesapeake Bay Bridge information.
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