More than 1 million likely to hit road this Memorial Day weekend

Published May 21, 2015

[caption id="attachment_9995" align="alignleft" width="150"]photo by Civitas photo by Civitas[/caption]

Editorial by Rocky Mount Telegram, May 20, 2015.

Going somewhere this Memorial Day holiday weekend? Better buckle up and pay attention – you certainly won’t be alone.

Traffic experts say this could be the busiest Memorial Day weekend in a decade. Great weather and cheap gas likely will fuel travel plans across the country. Here in North Carolina, more than 1 million drivers are expected to use state highways to reach their destination, according to projections from AAA Carolinas.

Any number of potential hazards come along with that many travelers. Drinking and driving becomes a concern. So does driver fatigue and cellphone distractions.

The N.C. Highway Patrol will be out in force, particularly focused on drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. It’s up to us to be responsible for the sake of ourselves and our families. We also need to keep an eye open for less responsible drivers.

Even with the price of gasoline climbing back up in recent weeks, drivers are still saving a bundle at the pump, compared to last year.

The price of a gallon of gas is more than a dollar cheaper than it was during the 2014 Memorial Day weekend. Fill up and enjoy the ride while you can still do so for under $3 a gallon. Who knows how long these prices will be here?

Be careful traveling and have a great weekend with family and friends.

Take a few moments Monday to remember what we’re observing – the ultimate sacrifices of countless brave men and women who have died in the service of this great country.