The coronavirus has some drivers forgetting to observe driving regulations and safety, according to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission and the state’s Department of Transportation.

The state police are reporting drivers going 100 miles per hour while texting and driving, according to an announcement from the commission. The commission projects more than 1.1 million motorists will be traveling the Turnpike over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, down from last year’s 2.2 million drivers during the same holiday period.

And even with these reduced numbers, PennDOT and the Turnpike commission noted that safe driving must still be observed.

“Our patrols have cited a number of motorists who are driving at speeds of 100 mph or greater,” Lt. David Devitt of state police, Troop T, Highspire, said in the commission’s announcement. “Speeding, coupled with distracted driving, is a dangerous combination.

“As motorists resume travel for the holiday weekend, their focus should remain on the roadway to avoid tragic outcomes. For this reason and your own safety, it’s important to put down your cellphone and watch your speed.”

The commission warned that in preparation of the expected holiday traffic, authorities will be out to watch for illegal behavior.

According to the commission, Friday afternoon and Monday evening would be when traffic is heaviest.

Additionally, PennDOT reminded commuters that they can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles in the state by visiting www.511PA.com. The service, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 950 traffic cameras.

The state police and PennDOT reminds drivers that traffic safety must be top of mind when behind the wheel.