For the first time since 2001, holiday travel will not increase on July 4th. AAA Carolinas reports about 1 million North Carolina and 551,000 South Carolina drivers are expected to hit the roads over the holiday weekend. That’s down 1.3% from last year. One out of every 4 Carolinians expects to travel more than 1,000 miles from home. Right now South Carolina has the second cheapest gas in the country. The price of gas in North Carolina is the 35th highest. Prices have gone up about $1.10 since July 4th last year.
Some AAA Carolinas’ recommended road safety tips include:
• Get your car checked before beginning your trip, especially checking fluids and tire pressure (see your owner’s manual or the side of your tires for the recommended air pressure) Make sure you have a spare tire in the vehicle and that it is properly inflated.
• Follow the rules of the road by not speeding, wearing your seatbelt and never driving while impaired.
• Keep your headlights on – both day and night. It helps your car be more visible to other drivers.
• Begin your trip well rested. Plan to start early in the day.
• Add 15 minutes to every hour your trip typically takes to factor in time for added traffic.
• Take a break every two hours or 150 miles. Stop the car, get some exercise and/or something to eat and drink. Use the rest stops or get out and walk around.
• Minimize your distractions:
--Plan your route before you begin the trip (i.e. map it out or set up GPS system) before you begin driving.
--Keep children busy – make sure you have activities planned for them (i.e. books, Ipods, DVDs and movies, small games)
--Use a cell phone only if really necessary keep your conversation short. Pull over to the side of the road if you need to talk longer or get directions.
• Stop driving when you’re tired. Pay attention to your body clock -- if you can’t remember the last two miles or if your eyelids start to droop, take a break or stop for the day.
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