AAA offers tips to dodge peak traffic as travelers return from Labor Day trips

Whether you are returning from a weekend getaway or cross-country road trip, experts with AAA shared tips outlining when motorists should hit the road to avoid peak traffic as people return home from their Labor Day vacations.

For drivers planning to return home on Monday, AAA advised them to hit the road any time before 10 a.m. as 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. would be the “worst time to drive” home.

Motorists planning to return home on Tuesday should hit the road after 1 p.m. as 8 a.m. to noon are likely to be peak travel times for many commuters.

“Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. “Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day.”

In the event of any car troubles, AAA recommends drivers to:

• Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers know you are there.
• Get to the nearest exit or stopping point if possible.
• Call for assistance
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe.
• Watch out for oncoming traffic when exiting your vehicle and avoid turning your back to traffic when possible.

This year, AAA expected millions of Americans to take domestic or international vacations to celebrate the end of the summer travel season