Expect Heavy Traffic Over This Memorial Day Weekend
Increased Travel Predicted
In a significant rebound since the pandemic, this Memorial Day holiday is positioned to be the busiest in nearly two decades. With an estimate of 43.8 million people expected to travel 50 miles or more from their homes, nearly 38.5 million of those individuals will take to the roads. The enormous surge in traffic, therefore, has led to predictions of heavy congestion and an expedited need for preventative safety measures.
Local Enforcement Agency Announcements
At the local level, Sheriff’s Offices across the country have pledged to ensure public safety during this uptick in travel activity. Included in their plans are efforts to maintain usual traffic regulations and to participate in the annual ‘Click-it or Ticket’ campaign, aimed at enforcing seatbelt usage. The campaign is scheduled to continue up until June 2nd.
“We will just be out observing, and hoping that the weather will dissipate some to hopefully reduce some of the accidents we’ve seen in the recent days,” states one county Sheriff, reflecting on the recent weather conditions.
Likelihood of Roadside Assistance
Given the inevitable increase in vehicle usage, it is important to ensure vehicles are in optimum condition before embarking on any journey. Advice from the American Automobile Association (AAA) suggests drivers need to validate their vehicles’ readiness prior to hitting the road. Items on the checklist include verifying tire pressure and tread, as well as battery life if it has been in use for over three years.
“We expect to rescue over 432,000 people this holiday weekend, and we certainly don’t want you to be one of them. So, please make sure your car is working properly before you head out,” advises an AAA representative.
Accident Statistics and Safety Concerns
The National Safety Council estimates that around 418 fatalities could occur on roadways during the Memorial Day holiday period. As traffic volume increases, drivers’ responses to traffic incidents can often exacerbate the situation.
“There’s a lot that happens. People from all directions start looking and observing when there is an accident. This often leads to additional accidents, with vehicles rear-ending each other,” warns a county Sheriff. He further advises that if involved in an accident, drivers should, if possible, immediately move their vehicles off the road and into an emergency lane to prevent further accidents. Staying clear of roadway paths can also contribute to avoiding additional accidents.
Travel Safe This Memorial Day
This Memorial Day, as millions of Americans will be back on the roads, remember to travel safely. Ensure your vehicle is road-ready, abide by traffic rules, and stay alert on the highways, especially around accident sites. The aim is for everyone to reach their destinations safely and enjoy this first significant holiday of the Summer season.
