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With AAA predicting a record number of Floridians traveling for Independence Day this year, it’s imperative that all motorists remain alert and safe while driving.
Traveling for the July 4th holiday? If so, you won’t be alone, so pack your sunscreen, and a little bit of patience.
AAA says Floridians will travel in record numbers for Independence Day, forecasting more than 2.8 million Floridians will take at least one trip of 50 miles or more, between Friday, June 30 and Tuesday, July 4. That’s87,000 more holiday travelers than the previous record high, set last year.
Friday, June 30 is expected to be the busiest day on the roads during the Independence Day holiday weekend, according to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights that AAA receives travel info from.
The Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Highway Patrol are preaching safety.
“While we celebrate Independence Day this holiday weekend, keep safety in mind when driving,” said FDOT District Five Secretary John E. Tyler, P.E. “Following the recommended safety tips and road laws is essential, especially during busy travel times.”
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) urge drivers to make sure their vehicle is ready for the trip, buckle up, and not drive impaired — including not driving while drowsy.
“Exploring Florida can be a fun adventure and we want everyone to reach their destination safely,” said Lieutenant Tara Crescenzi of the FHP. "We urge everyone to stay calm, slow down, and adhere to the speed limit. Ensuring your vehicle is ready before embarking on your journey is also crucial and we also insist that drivers ensure everyone in the vehicle is properly secured with seatbelts. These are just a few tips to Arrive Alive this summer.”
Motorists can also check roadway conditions and view live streaming traffic cameras on FL511.com, home of FDOT’s Florida 511 traveler information system.
Nationally, travel figures are also expected to set new records. An estimated 50.7 million Americans are forecast to travel for the holiday weekend. That’s nearly 2.1 million more travelers than last year’s holiday and almost 1.8 million more than the previous high, set back in 2019.
And, gas prices will be well below what drivers paid during last year’s holiday. The Florida average was $4.54 per gallon on July 4, 2022. So far this summer, gas prices have been somewhat erratic, but the state average has remained below $3.47 per gallon, thanks to the lower cost of oil. On Monday morning, Florida gas prices averaged $3.35 per gallon, and as low as $3.30 per gallon in Osceola County. That’s 8 cents less than last week.
“Florida gas prices have fallen about 12 cents per gallon throughout the past two weeks,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “Low oil prices have enabled gas prices to remain well below year-ago levels. However, strong demand has created some volatility throughout the past month. Even if gas prices bounce higher again soon, Independence Day road trippers will pay much less at the pump than they did last year.”
“Independence Day weekend appears to be the continuation of what has already been a very strong summer travel season,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Although airfares and hotel rates are more expensive than last year, Americans are still eager to travel. So, expect to see congested roads, busy hotels, and long lines at airports and attractions.”
Information from AAA The Auto Club Group and the News Service of Florida was used in this report.
