Traveling Expected to Pick Up Near Memorial Day

The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts almost 42.8 million Americans will travel this Memorial Day weekend, which would make it the second-highest Memorial Day weekend since 2000.

It's estimated that 37.6 million of those travelers will be using the roadways. AAA predicts Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24 will be the heaviest days for traffic. Rose White, public affairs director for AAA's Heartland Region, said planning ahead of time is recommended.

“Now keep in mind, there are many bridges and roads that are still out due to the spring floods and that is in Nebraska, Iowa and other states across the Midwest," White said. "You also need to plan that when you are fueling up, as many of those fuel outlets on those exits are still closed. You won’t be able to be able to obtain fuel there or use their restroom facilities and so you kind of need to plan your trip accordingly.”

White urges motorists to check the Nebraska 511 app and website for traveling information before departure. AAA also predicts 353,000 motorists will need road-side assistance. It's recommended to check your car’s battery or tires. White also noted Nebraska’s gas prices are down nine cents from Memorial Day weekend in 2018 and are 10 cents below the current national average.