How to stay safe while traveling this Labor Day Weekend

From Local 3 News: Labor Day Weekend is upon us, and the Transportation Security Administration expects more than 17 million people to travel starting Thursday.

Spokesperson for AAA (The American Automobile Association) with ACG (The Auto Club Group) Stephanie Milani says there are three major causes of accidents on the roads - driving too fast, distracted driving, and impaired driving.

However, there may be a few things you may not have considered before heading to your Labor Day destination.

Milani reminds everyone to wear your seatbelt, and don't drive drowsy. But, what are some ways people can remain safe if they have to drive in the rain?

"You know, especially on a road trip, we're all tempted to use cruise control, but if it is wet and rainy on the roads, you want to turn that cruise control off so that you have those extra seconds to respond if there is some sort of hazard on the road in front of you," Milani says.
If there is any ponding on the roads, a stopped vehicle, or a traffic slow-down, you also want to be able to look further down the road to help with your reaction time.

Your headlights should be on anytime your windshield wipers are on, and you should drive under the speed limit to help with traction. But, there is one set of lights that should not be turned on.

"Make sure that you have your lights on, but you don't need to turn your hazards on. Even if it's raining really bad and visibility is low, if you turn those hazards on, it may just confuse other drivers around you," Melani advises.

Melani says your hazard lights should be used if your car breaks down. If this happens, pull over to the nearest shoulder or exit, and stay as far away as possible from passing cars. If anyone is stopped on the side of the road, it is advised to move over lanes and slow down. Another concern when it comes to traveling can be the cost.

"So, the good news this year is that gas prices are about twenty cents less than they were this time last year, so if you are planning a trip, you'll save some money there. Another way is to only pack what you need because extra weight can decrease your fuel efficiency," Milani adds.

Milani says the AAA app can also save you money and help you check gas prices.
If the air conditioning does not work in your vehicle, Milani assures rolling down the windows or opening the sunroof should not affect your gas mileage, savings, or fuel efficiency significantly.

Milani emphasizes that although it is tempting to turn off your vehicle when stuck in traffic to save mileage, this is not recommended because it could delay emergency vehicles or prevent you from moving quickly if something happens in front of you.

Milani says if an accident occurs, move your vehicle from the traveling lane, exchange information, take pictures of any vehicle damage for both your and the other person’s car insurance, use their mobile app to look for assistance, and have the police come out and write a report if needed.

She reminds everyone that the most important thing to do is to first make sure people are safe after an accident.

AAA has even more insight and advice as to how you can stay safe this during this Labor Day weekend. You can visit their website and download their mobile application wherever you get your apps.