Record-Breaking Number of Americans Expected to Travel by Car This July 4th
This July 4th holiday weekend, a new record is expected to be set as the number of Americans traveling by car reaches unprecedented levels. According to AAA, an estimated 43.2 million people will be hitting the road, marking a 2.4% increase from last year and a 4% increase from 2019.
Concerns Over Road Safety
While the Independence Day holiday is a time for celebration and enjoyment, it is also known for being one of the deadliest periods for driving. With the anticipated surge in car travel, road safety experts are expressing their concerns.
The National Safety Council’s Statement
In a statement by the National Safety Council, Mark Chung, the executive vice president of roadway practice, said, “Summertime, and especially long holiday weekends, are a popular time to travel, celebrate and enjoy life. Unfortunately, the uptick in motor vehicle crashes puts a damper on this joy each year.”
Potential Loss of Lives
According to a recent analysis by the safety council, it is estimated that nearly 620 lives could be lost in preventable motor vehicle crashes during the Independence Day weekend. This period spans from 6 p.m. on Friday, June 30 to 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4.
A Preventable Tragedy
Mark Chung emphasized that if these numbers prove to be accurate, it would be nothing short of a tragedy since these deaths are preventable. He stated, “There are ways to end this national crisis.”
The safety council advises individuals to prioritize road safety by wearing seat belts, driving at appropriate speeds, avoiding distractions, and refraining from driving under the influence. Shockingly, data reveals that 39% of fatalities during the Independence Day holiday involve alcohol-impaired drivers, making it one of the highest percentages among major holidays.
Travel Tips and Traffic Information
AAA offers valuable tips for drivers, including information on the best and worst times to travel by car and peak congestion details for specific metro areas.
According to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, Friday, June 30 is expected to be the busiest day on the roads during the Independence Day weekend. Average travel times are projected to increase by nearly 30% compared to normal. Major metro areas such as Boston, Seattle, and Washington, DC are anticipated to experience the worst traffic. To avoid heavy holiday congestion, it is recommended to travel in the morning or after 6 p.m.
Minimizing Travel Frustrations
Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, advises drivers to utilize traffic apps, local DOT notifications, and 511 services to minimize travel frustrations during this record-breaking holiday weekend. He stated, “With record-breaking travelers expected on the road this holiday weekend, drivers should prepare for above-average delays to their favorite destinations.”
Author’s Quote
“If those numbers are accurate, it’s nothing less than a tragedy because these deaths are preventable. There are ways to end this national crisis.” – Mark Chung, Executive Vice President of Roadway Practice at the National Safety Council.
Author’s Conclusion
The anticipated surge in car travel this July 4th holiday weekend raises concerns about road safety. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize safe driving practices to prevent accidents and fatalities. By following guidelines such as wearing seat belts, driving responsibly, and avoiding distractions, we can all contribute to making our roads safer. Let’s work together to end this national crisis and ensure a joyful and accident-free holiday weekend.
To find out more about AAA’s analysis, click here. For more safety tips from the National Safety Council and to learn about what can be done to address roadway safety in the U.S., click here.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
