Travelers beware: Thanksgiving expected to be busiest travel holiday of the year
More Americans will be traveling for their turkey and pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving than in a dozen years.
About 50.9 million people are expected to travel by car, plane, bus, train or boat at least 50 miles from home during the week, a 3.3 percent increase over last year and the most since 2005.
In order to arrive safely in time before Grandpa eats all the mashed potatoes and stuffing, transportation agencies are encouraging travelers to leave early.
“We definitely recommend you leave yourself plenty of time. You don’t want to be stressing about being late,” said Jim Garrity, public and community relations manager for AAA East Central.
Pennsylvania Turnpike officials project 3.5 million cars and trucks will travel the turnpike during the six-day period that ends Sunday.
To keep traffic flowing as smoothly as possible, all lanes in each direction of the turnpike will be open through 11 p.m. Sunday, and maintenance and construction projects will be suspended.
Pennsylvania state police are encouraging drivers to stay focused on the roads.
“Distracted driving is among the top reason for crashes and fatalities on the Pennsylvania Turnpike,” said Cpl. Holly Reber-Billings of state police Troop T. “Any distraction that interrupts a driver’s concentration can be hazardous. At this busy time of year, when there typically are more passengers in vehicles, it’s extremely important to stay focused and pay attention to the roadway.”
It’s also helpful for motorists who are traveling a long distance to plan for regular breaks, at least every two hours or 100 miles, Garrity said.
Holly Tonini/Observer-Reporter
Holly Tonini/Observer-Reporter
Vehicles line up for gas at the Giant Eagle GetGo at Strabane Square in South Strabane Township as the official Thanksgiving holiday travel period began Tuesday.
AAA estimates that in the mid-Atlantic region that includes Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, a majority of the 6 million holiday travelers – 5.4 million – will drive to their destinations, up 3.4 percent. The number flying will be up 5.3 percent, to 529,000.
The state Department of Transportation also suggests motorists visit 511PA.com, which provides real-time traffic information and shows how traffic speeds during Thanksgiving travel times over the past two years compare to typical traffic conditions.
“Give yourself ample amounts of time when you head out the door,” said Garrity. “You can expect to run into congestion, so pack your patience, along with the cranberry sauce.”