RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will lift lane closures for several days near Christmas and New Year's Day to make end-of-year holiday travels on major roads "merrier." VDOT will suspend many highway work zones and lift temporary lane closures on interstates and other major roads in Virginia from noon on Tuesday, Dec. 24 until noon on Thursday, Dec. 26, as well as from noon on Tuesday, Dec. 31 until noon on Thursday, Jan. 2 for holiday travel. According to VDOT, while lane closures will be lifted in most locations, drivers may encounter semi-permanent work zones that remain in place during this time. Additionally, the department offers interactive travel trends maps for the Christmas and New Year's holidays, which show peak traffic congestion periods anticipated on Virginia interstates during the upcoming holiday travel period. The department said while the trends maps cannot precisely predict when congestion will occur this year, it can help drivers avoid traveling when traffic has historically moved the slowest. VDOT also provides the following tips for drivers to safely navigate the roadways during the holiday travel period: Buckle up every time and ensure passengers and car seats are secured. If you plan to drink, have a designated driver, use public transportation or make plans for a rideshare. Be patient and follow the posted speed limit.  Consider leaving early to allow extra time to reach your destination. Put your phone down and don’t drive distracted. Make sure your car is prepared for traveling in colder temperatures, including checking tire pressure and windshield wiper fluid levels and blades. Obey the “Move Over” law, requiring motorists to move over one lane, if possible, for all vehicles with flashing lights, flares, or warning signs stopped on the side of the road. If drivers are unable to move over, they should reduce their speed and use caution. For more information, visit VDOT's website.