“Road Trip Ready: 9.1 Million Texans Hit the Highway for Holiday Adventures!”

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Roughly 9.1 million individuals in the Lone Star State are expected to journey 50 miles or more from their residences during the time frame of Dec. 21 to Jan. 1, as per AAA Texas. This represents a 2.2% increase from 2023, although it is still 3.9% short of the peak seen in 2019.

Among those, 93% are likely to travel by automobile. Travel consultants noted that numerous travelers, especially families with young kids, favor the adaptability and reduced expenses associated with road trips.

INRIX, a source of transportation statistics and analysis, indicated that significant traffic congestion often occurs on the weekends preceding Christmas and New Year’s Day. Typically, traffic is minimal on the holidays themselves.

READ MORE: Houston airports anticipate 3.4 million travelers to pass through two airports this holiday season

Focusing on the Houston region, the highest traffic is expected between Lafayette, Louisiana, and Houston along I-10 west on Dec. 27 at approximately 5:45 p.m., which is a 53% increase compared to usual commuting days.

In terms of fuel prices, the average across Texas is about on par with last year. Generally, the demand for gasoline declines in December as temperatures drop, more individuals work remotely, and shoppers tend to buy gifts online rather than shopping in person.

For those embarking on long drives, AAA recommends the following precautions to ensure safety on the roads:

• Adhere to the speed limit. Driving at 80 mph instead of 75 over a 100-mile trip only saves 5 minutes and isn’t worth the danger.
• Drive only when alert and well-rested: Operating a vehicle on just 4 to 5 hours of slumber can be as perilous as driving with a 0.08 BAC (legally impaired). When you have less than 4 hours of sleep, the risk doubles.
• Take breaks: A good guideline is stopping every two hours or 100 miles. Use these pauses to change drivers or park at a safe location to rest for a recharge

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