Madison, WI – More than 1.5 million people are expected to travel on Wisconsin roads this Fourth of July week, prompting a safety and traffic advisory from state transportation officials.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), travel volume will surge beginning Tuesday, with peak hours forecasted between 12–9 p.m. on July 2, 2–6 p.m. on July 3, 12–7 p.m. on Independence Day, and 12–6 p.m. on Saturday, July 6. Although most road construction will pause to minimize delays, WisDOT notes that some active work zones may still impact traffic flow.
Motorists are urged to plan ahead and use real-time traffic tools, including the 511 WI app and the 511 phone service. The state’s Safety Patrol, sponsored by GEICO, will be active in several key corridors, including I-41, I-43, and I-39/90/94 to assist with breakdowns and incidents in work zones.
WisDOT is reminding drivers of several critical safety practices:
- Buckle Up, Phone Down – Avoid distractions and wear seat belts at all times.
- Slow down and adjust speeds based on conditions.
- Move over or slow for emergency vehicles, in accordance with Wisconsin state law.
- Steer It, Clear It – Move minor crash vehicles from traffic if safe to do so.
Additionally, rest areas along major interstates remain open, with I-43 rest stops near Denmark and Maribel under reconstruction. DMV offices will be closed on Thursday and Saturday (July 4 and 5), though online services remain available at wisconsindmv.gov.
For emergency preparedness, travelers are encouraged to update emergency contact info through wisconsindmv.gov/emergencycontact.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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