More than 2.5 million New Englanders are expected to get away for the July 4th weekend.
As millions of them embark on the roads, AAA recommends you avoid traveling during the busiest times. The Wednesday evening commute is expected to be the heaviest.
That’s why driver like Alex Thongsythavong plan to wake up early Thursday and drive to a friend’s beach house in Rhode Island.
“I think there’s going to be a moderate amount of traffic. We’re trying to leave early, early a.m. to get there,” said Thongsythavong. “Just spending the day at the beach, hanging out, playing some games and having some fun.”
While you are out driving, you will see more state police troopers than normal. Troopers tell us they will be patrolling for distracted and drunk drivers.
“Everyone wants to have a fun time, but we encourage the public to drink responsibly. If you are going to be drinking, we ask that you either designate a driver or utilize one of the ride share programs. There's no reason to get behind the wheel if you're going to be drinking,” said Trooper Josue Dorelus, with the Connecticut State Police.
Last year, Connecticut State Police issued almost 1,000 speeding tickets and more than 2,500 moving violations on the Fourth of July weekend.
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AAA also recommends you check your tire pressure and air filters before leaving home to avoid a breakdown and improve your fuel efficiency.
If you can wait until after the holiday weekend to fuel up, AAA expects you will also save money.
