Less Traffic This Weekend?
Record high gas prices are expected to produce fewer travelers during the first big summer holiday this weekend, but many agencies will still be out to encourage safety.
AAA Mid-Atlantic projects the number of Virginians traveling during the Memorial Day holiday will drop more than 3 percent when compared to last year's holiday weekend. This drop is consistent with the national trend that also shows more Americans will pay tribute to fallen soldiers at home.
AAA estimates that nearly 824,000 Virginians will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday, a decrease of more than 3 percent from last year.
"Many Americans are feeling a financial pinch this Memorial Day from record high gasoline prices and other factors in the economy," Martha M. Meade , manager of public and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic, said in a news release.
"Despite the small decrease, we will still see a significant number of people traveling for the holiday weekend. More than 12 percent of the U.S. population will be celebrating the Memorial Day weekend away from home."
Across much of the country, motorists driving to their Memorial Day holiday destinations will once again encounter record-high gas prices wherever they go. The national average for self-serve regular is $3.78 a gallon. That is 39 cents more than one month ago and 68 cents more than this time last year. Virginians are currently paying $3.69 a gallon, up 39 cents from last month and 77 cents from last year.
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles urged motorists to drive safely, reminding them to avoid night-time driving, resting to avoid fatigue and using turn signals.
Virginia State Police will also be out in full force, and the Virginia Department of Transportation wants motorists to be aware and drive slowly through construction zones even if workers aren't present.
Memorial Day 2008 Reading Room:
Jon Hatfield -- This Memorial Day, we talk to the head of Virginia's Mecca for remembering the efforts of our Commonwealth's fighting men and women.
Remembering Our Heroes -- Richmond.com has your guide to this year's Memorial Day events.
Fuzzy Memorial -- This Memorial Day, say a silent prayer for our troops. Then make really bad decisions.
The War Hits Home -- For those waiting back home as loved ones are away at war, Memorial Day can bring a plethora of emotions.
Less Traffic This Weekend? -- Thanks to higher gas prices, AAA Mid-Atlantic projects fewer travelers this holiday weekend.
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