AAA Says Holiday Travel Will Jump 3.8% This Year

Posted in Auto Insurance

December 17th, 2009

According to a new prediction from AAA, holiday travel will crowd the highways as millions more take to the road. In fact, the motorist group forecasts that travel will be up 3.8 percent, a 3 million increase from 2008.

Why Are More Traveling?

According to AAA, travel is expected to increase this year because Americans have become more confident about their finances even though the economy still has not fully recovered. Also, gas prices are approximately 50 cents per gallon cheaper this year compared to the same time last year. Despite better conditions, however, there will be some who will still stay at home because they simply don’t have the money to travel.

Total, the group predicts that 87.7 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home between Dec. 23 and Jan. 3. About 88 percent are expected to drive, 5 percent will fly, and the rest will travel by train, bus, boat or other means.

If You’re Traveling, Be Safe

Numerous states reported an increase in auto accidents during the 2008 holiday season, mostly due to drunk driving, crowded roads and speeding. Of course, in additional to the injuries that accidents could cause, you could increase your auto insurance rates.

So before you get on the road, here are a few ways to increase the safety of you and your family:

• Get an auto maintenance check: You want to make sure your car is in good condition, including the brakes, tires and windshield wipers. Also, you want to check oil and fluid levels, battery and even consider a tune-up to make sure your car is in the best condition possible before hitting the road. If you’re not sure that the car is in quality condition, consider renting one.
• Turn off your cell phone: Talking and texting are one of the biggest causes of accidents, so it’s a good idea to only use your phone when necessary – preferably when the car isn’t moving.
• Invest in a GPS system: Trying to read a map while driving is a serious distraction. By investing in a GPS system, you could not only have the directions to your destination called out, but you know you’re guided correctly every time.
• Bring activities to keep the kids busy: One of the biggest distractions on the road can be your kids. If you make sure they’re busy and quiet, you could increase your chances of safe travel.

If you consider these tips, you not only increase your chances of safe travel, but ensure that your trip is just as good as you’d planned.