Planning a road trip this New Year’s? Keep these safety tips in mind to ensure a smooth and accident-free journey.

Travel Trends for New Year’s in the U.S.

New Year’s celebrations are a prime time for family visits, and this year, over 119.3 million Americans are expected to travel more than 80 kilometers from home, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). This number slightly surpasses the previous record set in 2019.

AAA’s Stacey Barber emphasized the importance of travel during the holiday season, saying, “This is the time to create lifelong memories with loved ones.”

Of these travelers, nearly 107 million (90%) are expected to drive to their destinations. INRIX, a transportation analytics provider, has shared key insights with AAA about the best and worst times to hit the road this season.

Ideal Times to Drive for New Year’s

Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, anticipates “near-record” car travel this year. He warns that the weekends before Christmas and New Year’s will see the heaviest traffic, while the holidays themselves should experience lighter congestion.

In major cities like Boston, New York, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., delays may double, and nationwide travel times could extend by up to 30%.

Key travel insights:

  • Tuesday, December 31 (New Year’s Eve): Minimal traffic impact expected.
  • Wednesday, January 1 (New Year’s Day): Traffic congestion is also predicted to be minimal.
  • Thursday, January 2: The worst time to drive is between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, while the best time is before 3:00 PM.

Road Safety Tips for Holiday Travel

AAA advises all drivers to prioritize safety regardless of their travel times:

  1. Follow Speed Limits:
    • Speeding saves minimal time but significantly increases accident risks.
    • Driving at 80 mph (128 km/h) instead of 75 mph (120 km/h) only saves five minutes—a trade-off that isn’t worth the danger.
  2. Stay Rested and Alert:
    • Driving with only four to five hours of sleep is as risky as driving with a 0.08 blood alcohol level.
    • Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or drowsiness-inducing medications before driving.
    • Plan breaks every two hours or 100 miles (160 kilometers). Switch drivers if possible or take a 20–30-minute nap in a safe area to stay refreshed.
  3. Slow Down Near Emergency Workers:
    • A road worker dies every two weeks in the U.S. due to traffic incidents.
    • If you see emergency or construction personnel, slow down and switch lanes to give them space to work safely.

Plan Smart for a Safe New Year’s Drive

With careful timing and these safety measures, you can enjoy a stress-free journey and focus on creating unforgettable moments with your loved ones.

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