If you felt that Kentucky roads were busy and congested last year, then get ready because this year is predicted to be even busier! According to AAA Travel, 46.9 million Americans will take to the roads to drive from their home during this Thanksgiving holiday. This is a 0.6% increase from the number of travelers recorded in 2014. With this in mind, you may want to allow more time to get to your destination or use alternate routes.
Related: Thanksgiving Travel Brings Challenges To The Roads
How is Kentucky preventing traffic crashes?
The holiday season is the busiest and deadliest time of the year for travel. To prevent traffic-related crashes during this season, the Kentucky State Police will be cracking down on drivers that display unsafe driving behavior through Operation R.A.I.D. (Remove Aggressive, Impaired and Distracted Drivers from Kentucky’s Roadways). With that, expect to see more police on the roads with more traffic safety checkpoints, especially on high traffic and high crash areas.
How will lower gas prices affect traffic this year?
According to AAA, driving still remains the leading mode of travel for Thanksgiving travel, although air travel is also expected to increase. This can be attributed to the lower gas prices, which may be the lowest since 2008. In 2014, a gallon of gasoline was $2.80, but this year that rate is $2.15 or less. With gas being more affordable, more people are expected to be out on the roads. This will cause highways and roads to be busier.
AAA also estimates that over 360,000 motorists will need rescue due to flat tires or dead batteries, among many other car problems, this year. Please make sure that your car’s tires and battery are in good shape before leaving home. Also, when you take your vehicle to a repair shop, only go to a reputable repair shop to have your vehicle checked to avoid scams.
Staying safe this Thanksgiving
Beware of aggressive drivers and stay focused on the road while you are driving. If you start to feel irritated because of a rude driver, try to stay calm, take a few deep breaths and try to avoid the aggressive driver. Also make sure that you get plenty of sleep before embarking on a long drive. If possible, switch drivers every-so-often to give the driver a break. Also, after your Thanksgiving festivities, you may feel tired. Remember to take plenty of breaks as you drive home, and if you feel too tired, find a hotel to stay in for the night.
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As a Kentucky Car Accident Attorney, I hope that everyone enjoys a smooth and convenient travel this Thanksgiving. There’s nothing happier than spending this season with your family and friends, but don’t forget about safety. Focus on the road, allow more time to get to your destination and if there is alcohol at the Thanksgiving gathering, know your limits and never drink and drive. Have a great Thanksgiving!