While the automobile club (AAA) is not making any travel predictions for the holiday weekend, officials do expect more spur-of-the-moment travel.
More travel is expected by driving for Labor Day this year because of the coronavirus pandemic and drivers around the country are seeing some of the lowest gas prices in four years, according to AAA.
“We’re seeing a surge in families planning last-minute trips for the holiday weekend,” John Townsend, manager of public and government affairs at AAA Mid-Atlantic, told WTOP. “We’re seeing an upsurge in the number of requests for road trip travel tools at AAA, such as travel guidebooks, maps and TripTiks.” The majority of travel, 97%, will be by automobile, officials said.
“With travel restrictions lifting but social distancing still recommended, it’s no surprise,” Jeanette Casselano, director of public relations for AAA, told Patch. “And an added benefit right now – gas prices remain low.” In addition to social distancing and other coronavirus precautions that could vary by location, officials are warning that with an increase in traffic drivers should maintain safe driving practices.
“Preparation is the name of the game when it comes to traveling during this pandemic,” Skyler McKinley, a AAA Colorado spokesman, said in a statement. “But it’s much more than just protecting yourself from the virus. With Labor Day set to spike traffic on our roadways, travelers need to make safe decisions while behind the wheel.”
TOP 4 DRIVING SAFETY TIPS
Focus on Driving
Keep 100% of your attention on driving at all times – no multi-tasking.
Don’t use your phone or any other electronic device while driving.
Slow down. Speeding gives you less time to react and increases the severity of an accident.
Drive “Defensively”
Be aware of what other drivers around you are doing, and expect the unexpected.
Assume other motorists will do something crazy, and always be prepared to avoid it.
Keep a 2-second cushion between you and the car in front of you.
Make that 4 seconds if the weather is bad.
Make a Safe Driving Plan
Build time into your trip schedule to stop for food, rest breaks, phone calls or other business.
Adjust your seat, mirrors and climate controls before putting the car in gear.
Pull over to eat or drink. It takes only a few minutes.
Practice Safety
Secure cargo that may move around while the vehicle is in motion.
Don’t attempt to retrieve items that fall to the floor.
Have items needed within easy reach – such as toll fees, toll cards and garage passes.
Always wear your seat belt and drive sober and drug-free.
Joe Zarzaur is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney whose firm is dedicated to promoting community safety since 2007. OUR AREAS OF PRACTICE: Serious Personal Injury, Product Defect, Auto Accidents, Cycling Accidents, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Products Liability, Wrongful Death, Community Safety, Boat and Jet Ski Accidents, Slip and Fall Injuries, and more. Licensed in Alabama and Florida.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it is important to consult with a Board Certified Trial lawyer who has the knowledge and experience to help you. We know accidents can be stressful and want to make the process as easy as possible for you. Call Zarzaur Law, P.A. today at (855) Hire-Joe for a free legal consultation or visit www.zarzaurlaw.com.
Sources:
https://www.wftv.com/news/trending/gas-prices-down-last-minute-travel-up-labor-day-weekend-aaa-says/76IIC72LDFF6HGNTTRAFKXG6QQ/
https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/auto-insurance/articles/driving-safety-tips