AAA predicts record number of travelers for July 4th

(WTRF) — AAA is expecting record numbers of travelers this week. Officials predict nearly 71 million people will not only hit the roads but also the skies for the 4th of July Holiday.

In West Virginia and the surrounding region, AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car throughout the week, according to officials which is an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year.

They say one of the most important things when planning long trips is to make sure your vehicle is in good traveling condition. That means making sure tires have the right amount of air and tread, and ensuring battery and fluid levels are normal.

If you’re heading to the airport, officials say to expect crowded lines and congestion getting in.

Their biggest advice is to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to your destination.

”Whether you are driving on the roads, if you’re headed to the airport as well, make sure you increase that time from from 2 hours to maybe even 3 hours to get to your departure gate. With these record breaking numbers, there are going to be a lot of people wherever you head. So please be sure to give yourself time and, you know, just be as patient as possible.”

Tiffany Stanley – Spokesperson, AAA East Central

With the 4th of July commonly being a holiday that involves alcohol, officials ask you to have a designated driver or use a ride-share service if you are drinking.

AAA says the record number of travelers is due to the demand for traveling along with the fact that the Holiday is in the middle of the week.

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