Oxford Prepares for Football Season with MDOT’s Road Safety Initiative
As the excitement for college football season builds, the city of Oxford is gearing up for a busy weekend with the first home game for the Ole Miss Rebels. To assist in ensuring the safety of all fans, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has launched its Road to Game Day 2024 campaign, aimed at helping drivers navigate the roads safely and efficiently during the game days.
Traffic Apps for a Smooth Ride
MDOT encourages drivers to utilize its free MDOT Traffic mobile app. This app provides real-time access to important tools that display current road conditions and traffic alerts. The alerts offered through the app are designed to be interactive, making it easy for users to find essential information while on the go. For those who prefer browsing online, valuable travel information can also be found at MDOTtraffic.com.
Expecting Congestion
With a highly anticipated season opener against Furman on Saturday, traffic in Oxford is expected to be quite congested. Residents and visitors are reminded to plan accordingly if attending the game or other events. In fact, on the eve of the game, there will be a concert at the Pavilion featuring former Ole Miss athletes Brett Young and Josh Kelley, along with a performance by Mustache The Band.
Safety First!
MDOT’s primary focus for this campaign is to ensure the safety of both drivers and roadside workers. As traffic increases during football seasons, it’s crucial for everyone to practice safe driving habits. MDOT Executive Director Brad White stated, “Football season is an exciting time in our state, and we want to make sure that everyone makes it to the game safely.”
He further emphasized simple actions drivers can take to remain safe, including: putting down the phone while driving, slowing down in work zones, and designating a driver if drinking is involved. These small choices can significantly contribute to keeping families safe on the road as they head out to support their teams.
Tips for Safer Driving
MDOT recommends a few straightforward tips to ensure a safe driving experience:
- Never drink and drive; always have a designated driver in place.
- Pay attention to the road and your surroundings at all times.
- Drive the speed limit and adhere to posted signs.
- Exercise extreme caution in work zones and abide by reduced speed limits.
- Make sure to buckle your seat belt and ensure all passengers do the same.
- Secure your load properly to avoid accidents.
Stay Informed
For more information on travel safety and further resources, individuals can visit GoMDOT.com/DriveSmartMS. As Oxford prepares for a lively game day filled with festivities, it is important that everyone prioritizes safety on the road.
Have a fun, safe, and exciting time as Ole Miss kicks off their football season!
