INDIANAPOLIS -- Before you head out the door to spend some time with loved ones on Christmas, make sure you're aware of the best traffic resources to make sure you get to your destination smoothly.
AAA is predicting that more than 90 percent of travelers will drive to their destinations -- nearly 1 in 3 Americans.
If your holiday travels take you north toward South Bend, your drive should be smoother, thanks to the opening of the new U.S. 31 highway. The new lanes and reduced traffic signals should increase the speed on the road, and INDOT plans to suspend any shoulder work along the stretch during the holiday rush.
Heading southwest toward Evansville? Don't forget that a Section 4 of I-69 is complete between Crane Naval Base and Bloomington.
If you plan on driving south on I-65 toward Louisville -- or farther -- expect a smoother ride between Southport Road and Main Street with additional lanes. But if you head through Greenwood, there is a traffic shift and median crossover at Main Street Exit 99. There is also another shift near the Henryville rest area in southern Indiana.
What about northwest to Chicago? Expect delays on I-94, as the eastbound left lane will remain closed for construction near State Road 49. INDOT says they will have contractors pull back barriers along existing road projects across the state to ease congestion this week.
Also, get plenty of sleep. Drowsy or distracted driving can be just as dangerous as driving drunk.
Here are some links to help you in your safe travels:
RTV6 Traffic Map: Always a great resource, see the latest traffic updates, as well as an interactive map of delays.
AAA.com/mobile - Make sure you have some help ready in case anything happens to you on your route.
http://indot.carsprogram.org/ - Keep on top of any construction and road reports, straight from the Indiana Department of Transportation
Sign up for INDOT's email or text updates to stay informed.
