Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — Traffic across the Wiregrass is expected to increase during the summer months as travelers head south toward Florida beaches, bringing added congestion and safety concerns for local drivers.
According to reports, Dothan serves as a major travel corridor to the Gulf Coast, leading to a noticeable rise in traffic from late spring through the summer. The heaviest congestion is typically seen during holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day.
Officials say the increased traffic can also be impacted by ongoing road work and infrastructure projects, which may slow travel times and create additional hazards for motorists.
Safety experts are also reminding families to take precautions during the busy travel season, especially when children are in vehicles. Pediatric vehicular heatstroke remains a leading cause of non-crash-related deaths involving children, often when a child is accidentally left in a car.
Drivers are urged to always check the backseat before locking their vehicles and to keep cars locked when not in use. Even on mild days, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise quickly to dangerous levels.
In addition, Alabama law requires proper child passenger restraints. Infants must be in rear-facing seats, young children in forward-facing seats, and booster seats are required until at least age six. Children are advised to remain properly restrained with a seatbelt until age 15, and those under 13 should ride in the back seat.
Authorities encourage drivers to remain alert, plan for delays and take extra precautions to keep families safe during the summer travel season.
