Travel Officials Prepare for Busy Holiday Season

bad traffic The 2016 holiday travel season is projected to be the busiest on record, according to a study conducted by AAA.

An estimated 103 million people will travel to their holiday destinations, with the majority of travelers choosing to drive.

According to the survey’s results, America’s roads will be filled with 93 million motorists driving to their destination during holiday travel season, which has been designated by AAA as lasting from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2.

The survey also revealed that while driving will likely rise by 1.5 percent from the 2015 holiday travel season, air travel will increase by 2.5 percent as well. Use of other forms of transportation, such as train and bus travel, is expected to decrease.

AAA officials believe that some of the contributing factors to the increasing number of drivers is related to economic improvements that have occurred in recent years. Lower gas prices are also contributing to travelers’ decision to drive, as the national average is $2.22, which has saved U.S. drivers approximately $27 billion throughout 2016.

Pennsylvania will also experience a large increase in travel during the 2016 holiday season. The state’s turnpike is expected to be occupied by 4.45 million vehicles throughout the season, with an average of 555,000 motorists each day.

AAA expects to rescue 980,000 motorists during the 11-day holiday travel season for reasons including dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts. It is important that you take the proper precautions before traveling.

The auto agency is reminding drivers to follow these guidelines:

Refrain from using your cellphone or mobile electronic device while driving.
Make your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads during the holiday season. Always have a back-up route.
Ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained. It would be best if you visit a mechanic for a routine inspection before travelling long distances.
In case of an emergency, keep a cellphone and charger with you at all times. AAA has an app available for both iPhone and Android phones.
Keep the contact information for a road-side assistance services closely available.

As 2016 is the highest holiday travel period on record, accidents will inevitably occur. If you or someone you love is involved in an accident during the holiday season, the Harrisburg car accident attorneys at Schmidt Kramer can help. We will review your case for free and work on a contingency fee basis, which means we charge no legal fees unless your receive a favorable outcome.

To schedule a free consultation, call (717) 888-8888 or fill out a Free Case Evaluation form.

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AAA Study Predicts Major Increase in Holiday Travel