If you’re traveling this July Fourth weekend, pack your patience…you’re going to need it. Travel industry experts say this will be the second-highest Independence Day travel volume on record, trailing only 2019.
More than 47.7 million Americans are expected to take to the nation’s roadways and skies over the long Fourth of July weekend. Despite the highest gas prices in seven years, more than 91% of holiday travel will be by car, says AAA.
“Travel is in full swing this summer, as Americans eagerly pursue travel opportunities they’ve deferred for the last year-and-a-half,” says Paula Twidale, senior vice president, AAA Travel. “We saw strong demand for travel around Memorial Day and the kick-off of summer, and all indications now point to a busy Independence Day to follow.”
With 43.6 million Americans expected to hit the roads this weekend, major metro areas across the U.S. could see nearly double the delays versus typical drive times.
“We’re expecting nationwide traffic volumes to increase about 15% over normal this holiday weekend,” says transportation analyst Bob Pishue with INRIX. “Knowing when and where congestion will build can help drivers avoid the stress of sitting in traffic.”
GDOT’s 511 Navigator and other mobile apps such as WAZE can assist drivers in tracking traffic trends.
Law enforcement out in force
Given the expected high volumes on Georgia’s roads, state transportation and law enforcement officials urge travelers to plan ahead and celebrate responsibly.
“Although we want everyone to celebrate the holidays, we encourage practicing safe driving habits such as watching the speed limits, making sure everyone is wearing the appropriate safety restraints, paying attention to the road, and not driving impaired,” urges Georgia Department of Public Safety Commissioner Colonel Chris Wright.
The holiday travel period is 54 hours long. It begins at 6 p.m. Friday, July 2, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on July 4.
Last year, thirteen people died in traffic crashes on Georgia’s roads during the July Fourth holiday. Law enforcement will be out in force this weekend trying to keep those numbers down.
“State Troopers and Officers will be on high visibility patrols with the goal of reducing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities, as well as discouraging impaired driving,” Wright adds.
The Georgia State Patrol is participating in the Operation Zero Tolerance campaign, a nationwide mobilization against impaired driving, as well as the 100 Days of Summer H.E.A.T. campaign. Troopers will be working alongside sheriff’s deputies and police officers to apprehend impaired drivers and crack down on aggressive speeders and distracted drivers.
