Now is the time to start thinking about your Memorial Day Getaway Plans. AAA projects that 41.5 million people will travel this weekend,and you could be one of them! This a 13-year high and nearly 5 percent more than last year. Gas prices are at a four-year high, a nationwide average of $2.938 for a gallon of regular on Monday, more than 57 cents more than last year, according to GasBuddy.com.
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Here are some quick tips for Memorial Day to help you stay safe and sane:
- Do not travel during peak travel times. If you can travel when there is less congestion, there will be fewer delays to slow you down. This can mean leaving later in the evening or earlier in the morning or even the day before. The worst time to travel will be Thursday and Friday afternoon, specifically, Friday between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- Make sure you check your car’s vital systems, including the battery, tires, and oil before you leave. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has declared the week of May 22-29 as Vehicle Safety Week in the Empire State. There are an estimated 11,000 crashes every year as a result of faulty tires alone including 200 fatalities. Vehicle maintenance is an integral part of #SafeDriving.
The American Automotive Association (AAA) estimates that 36.6 million million Americans will be driving somewhere during Memorial Day, with the average trip ranging between 50 and 100 miles. The roads will be crowded. It is important to pack snacks and water and also to remind yourself to keep calm and cool. Traffic can trigger road rage and there is nothing worse than being angry and stuck in a jam!
Police will be out in record numbers at sobriety check points and working on the “Click-It-Or-Ticket” initiatives! Remember to stay off your phone as well it is dangerous and can lead to fines and an AUTOMATIC 5 POINTS in NY!
Where ever you are headed this weekend make sure you leave yourself plenty of time, stay sober, stay off your cell phone and that you drive defensively. As always, DRIVE SAFE!