The American Automobile Association (AAA) is predicting this Fourth of July holiday weekend to be the most traveled Independence Day weekend ever.
More than 44 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home over the weekend, which is 1.25 million more travelers than last year. With July 4th falling on a Tuesday, it is believed people will make the most of the long weekend.
“Strong employment, combined with rising incomes and higher consumer confidence bode well for the travel industry,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast Director of Public and Legislative Affairs. “This historic number of travelers will add to an already bustling summer travel season.”
AAA estimates that 85% of all holiday travelers will opt to drive to their destinations, an increase of nearly 3% over 2016’s numbers. Only 3.27 million travelers are expected to look into other forms of transportation, including trains, buses, or cruises.
Slow Down, Move Over
The AAA reminds travelers that every state has a law requiring motorists to move over and slow down when approaching first responders such as police officers and tow truck drivers.
“First responders are killed or injured every year throughout the country, and the Slow Down, Move Over laws are designed to protect those who are working to protect us,” Maguire said.
Prepare Before You Go
Are you one of the millions of drivers taking to the road at the beginning of July? Read our
Car Upgrades for Road Trips
to see how else you can make your drive the safest — and most comfortable — possible.