AAA Projects 41.9 Million Traveling for 4th of July

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- This Fourth of July, 41.9 million Americans are expected to travel, according to AAA,  a 0.7 percent increase compared to last year.

This will be the largest number of travelers the country has seen since 2007.

"This Independence Day, more people will get in their cars, board airplanes, and take buses, trains and cruise ships to celebrate our nation's freedom with friends and family," said Ragina Cooper Averella, Manager of AAA Mid-Atlantic's Public and Government Affairs.  "Students all across the nation are also celebrating freedom from pencils and books, making this an ideal time for a family vacation. Independence Day is typically the busiest summer travel holiday for this reason, and this year more Americans are planning a holiday getaway than any year since 2007."

The increase in traveling is being attributed to the rising income due to a strengthening job market. In addition, low gas prices, which are well below year0-ago levels, are driving Americans to their cars.

"Although some consumers are using their recent savings on gas to pay down debt and save, overall, Americans are planning to travel in record numbers," added Averella. "Independence Day gas prices are expected to be the lowest in at least five years, a welcome sign for the 35.5 million people planning a holiday road trip."

With the influx of drivers on the road, AAA expects to rescue nearly 360,000 motorist at the roadside this 4th of July weekend. Most of these problems will be dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts. Make sure to check your vehicle before leaving and  download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com or call 1-800-AAA-HELP to request roadside assistance when needed.