Maximum speed reduced on portions of I-17

PHOENIX (KSAZ) -- There's another thing that may slow you down, literally. if you are taking the I-17 this weekend.

A slower speed limit will be in effect on a portion of I-17 north of the Valley.

Starting last year, ADOT says they started reducing the speed limit on I-17 between New River Road and the Sunset Point rest area, during peak travel periods. They say last year on Labor Day weekend, nine drivers were killed on Arizona's roadways.

"By giving you a figure like that, it's still a sobering number to know that nine people lost their lives over Labor Day weekend a year ago, and so we're reminding folks that want those numbers to come down," said ADOT spokesperson Doug Nintzel.

Three of those crashes involved alcohol. When we asked drivers how they felt about the reduced speed limit, they were all fine with it, saying safety does come first.

"No problems for us. We're actually with a large rig so its okay. We're got to be careful anyway, so yeah, we have precious cargo. Our grandson in there!"

ADOT also recommends drivers pack well for these long trips, in case their cars break down.