HARRISBURG — Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer; for many, it means spending time with friends and loved ones. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission reminds motorists that most holiday travelers will be in their cars. Planning and extra caution should be undertaken.

“We anticipate that almost 2.3 million vehicles will be on the PA Turnpike over the course of the four-day holiday period,” says Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “Before you head out on your road trip, plan accordingly and be aware that extra cars mean more traffic and perhaps more accidents. Put your phone down. Slow down. Pay careful attention and take regular breaks.”

Friday afternoon and Monday evenings are expected to be the times when traffic will be at its peak. The traffic breakdown is as follows:

Friday — 765,000 vehicles expected to travel;

Saturday — 540,000 vehicles expected to travel;

Sunday — 465,000 vehicles expected to travel; and

Monday — 485,000 vehicles expected to travel.

To help accommodate heavier traffic, the Turnpike will suspend maintenance and construction work and have all available lanes open beginning 3 p.m. on Thursday through 11 p.m. on Monday. Additional maintenance and safety personnel will be patrolling during the holiday weekend. To report an accident or other emergency on the PA Turnpike, dial *11 via mobile phone, please try to share your direction and milepost.

“You are never alone on the Pennsylvania Turnpike,” says Lieutenant David Devitt of the Pennsylvania State Police Troop T, the troop in charge of Turnpike patrols. Troop T will also have extra patrols to assist customers, as well as to look for aggressive, distracted and impaired drivers. “These dangerous habits can, and do, result in crashes,” explains Devitt who also notes that more than 1,300 speeding citations were issued last year during the Memorial Day travel period as well as 57 seatbelt citations and four arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Motorists are also reminded to “Move Over” or “Steer Clear” when coming upon emergency vehicles including tow trucks stopped to help on the roadway.