The back-to-school commute creates one of the busiest and most unpredictable traffic environments of the year. As students return to the classroom, drivers will encounter: 

·       heavier traffic around schools

·       increased pedestrian activity

·       school buses making frequent stops

·       e-bike and e-scooter riders traveling to and from schools

"School commutes are now more complex than ever," said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Drivers aren’t just watching for students on foot and children getting on or off school buses. They're also sharing the road with e-bike and e-scooter riders. When you combine that with distracted driving and speeding, the consequences can be devastating."

School Safety Starts with Drivers

AAA urges drivers to slow down, eliminate distractions, and remain alert in school zones and residential neighborhoods. Children may cross unexpectedly, rush toward a bus stop, or emerge from between parked vehicles.

Drivers should:

·       Obey posted school zone speed limits

·       Put phones away and eliminate distractions

·       Watch for crossing guards and pedestrians

·       Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing

Students are reminded to:

·       Cross at marked crosswalks whenever possible

·       Stay alert and avoid phones when walking near traffic and crossing streets

·       Make eye contact with drivers before crossing a roadway

·       Use designated crosswalks and bus loading areas

·       Follow school safety rules for bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters

School Bus Safety Remains Critical

School buses are among the safest ways for students to travel, but the moments when children enter and exit the bus can be especially dangerous.

Drivers should:

·       Stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm

·       Remain stopped until children have safely cleared the roadway

·       Watch carefully for students crossing near the bus

E-Bikes and E-Scooters Require Extra Awareness

As e-bike and e-scooter popularity continues to climb, more students are expected to use these devices for the daily trip to and from school. That makes it increasingly important for riders and motorists to understand how to safely share the road.

“These devices are not toys,” said Ortner, “E-bikes and scooters can travel at speeds that catch riders and drivers off guard. As e-ride usage increases, so have the number of serious injuries and deaths. If your child plans to e-ride to school, we encourage parents to teach safe riding habits before the first day.”

The Auto Club Group developed the E-Ride Ready campaign to help families make informed decisions about e-bikes and e-scooters. Consumers can download AAA’s free E-Ride Safety Guide for an overview of e-ride classifications, helmet standards, and guidance for safe riding habits.

As students prepare to ride to school, AAA reminds e-riders to:

·       Know local e-ride laws, including age requirements, helmet rules, and where e-bikes and e-scooters can be ridden

·       Wear a properly fitted helmet that matches the speed and capabilities of the device

·       Obey traffic signals, signs, and speed limits, especially at intersections and crossings

“E-rides have spread so quickly that laws, infrastructure, and safety awareness haven’t kept pace,” said Brian Ortner, Spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “That leaves many parents trying to figure out what’s safe, what’s allowed, and what rules to set. AAA’s E-Ride Ready campaign helps to close that gap.”

At the center of the campaign is The Auto Club Group’s new E-Ride Safety Guide, a free resource that helps families:

·       Understand how e-bikes and e-scooters operate

·       Choose helmets designed for the speed and type of device

·       Identify where riders can safely and legally ride

·       Set clear safety expectations before a child’s first ride

This campaign comes amid growing concern nationwide about injuries involving young e-riders. A U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission review found micromobility-related injuries rose an average of 23 percent from 2017 to 2022, contributing to an estimated 360,800 emergency department visits and 233 deaths. Medical experts say e-ride crashes commonly involve vehicles, pedestrians, and fixed objects such as curbs and mailboxes.

“As e-rides become more common, younger riders are often sharing the road with traffic before they fully understand how to navigate it safely,” said Ortner. “When you combine higher speeds with limited experience, the risk of a serious crash increases quickly. That’s why it’s critical for parents to stay involved and set clear expectations before a child rides.”

Helmets save lives

Medical experts say helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries, yet many young riders go without one or use helmets that are not designed for higher-speed devices.

“Helmets can make all the difference in a crash,” said Ortner. “Parents should make sure riders wear a properly fitted helmet on every ride and ensure it matches the speed and capabilities of the device. AAA’s new E-Ride Safety Guide helps families understand the different standards and when they apply.”

E-Ride laws vary by location

Confusion about e-bike and e-scooter laws can create additional risk for families. Rules governing rider age, helmet requirements, and where devices can operate often vary widely by state and local communities.

Federal law generally defines a low-speed e-bike as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals, a motor of 750 watts or less, and top assisted speeds ranging from 20 to 28 mph, depending on classification. Some higher-speed devices commonly used by teens may fall outside traditional e-bike classifications altogether and require a driver’s license and registration.

Nebraska law at a glance:

·       Statewide minimum 18 years of age for e‑bike riders

·       No statewide minimum age for e-scooter riders

·       E‑bikes may ride where bicycles are allowed

·       Sidewalk riding is generally permitted statewide

·       Public trail use as permitted

·       Local municipalities may have specific restrictions

·       E-bikes and bicyclists must follow the same rules of the road as drivers, such as, honoring stop signs and traffic signals.

AAA encourages families to review their state and local laws before allowing children or teens to ride. The E-Ride Safety Guide also highlights safe riding locations and encourages families to prioritize environments with less traffic and fewer hazards.

AAA’s E-Ride Ready campaign encourages families to:

1.     Know the speed and capabilities of the device

2.     Require properly fitted helmets, rated for the e-ride’s top speed

3.     Understand where e-rides can legally and safely operate

4.     Practice safe riding habits around traffic and pedestrians

The free E-Ride Safety Guide includes:

·       An overview of e-bike and e-scooter types and performance differences

·       Helmet guidance and safety checklists

·       Tips for riding around traffic and pedestrians

·       Safety conversation starters for parents and young riders

·       Safety tips for drivers and e-riders

As e-rides become more common in neighborhoods and on roadways, AAA says preparation is critical to preventing injuries.

“E-bikes and e-scooters can be a fun and convenient way to get around, but they require more awareness and responsibility than many families expect,” said Ortner. “When parents understand the risks and set clear expectations, they can help prevent crashes before they happen.”

Families can download AAA’s free E-Ride Safety Guide at sm.AAA/ERideReady

**West North Central Region (WNC): IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD

While this year’s increase is modest compared to recent gains, it still sets a record for Fourth of July travel for the region, as strong consumer demand continues to offset higher travel costs.

“For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend, even if that means cutting back on something else. With an extended holiday travel period, we expect busy roads, steady demand for flights, and continued interest in cruises across many parts of the country.”

Rather than staying home, many travelers are choosing to offset higher travel costs by:

·         Taking shorter vacations

·         Choosing destinations closer to home

·         Closely comparing the cost of driving vs flying

·         Planning a cruise or all-inclusive resort where costs are more defined

·         Cutting back on extras like eating out and souvenirs

This flexibility helps sustain overall travel volume, even when prices increase. For those who haven’t finalized their plans, it’s not too late to work with a travel agent to find last-minute options or savings.

National Travel Figures are Slightly Higher Than Last Year

Growth in the West North Central Region reflects a broader national trend. AAA projects 72.2 million Americans to travel during the Independence Day holiday period, setting another record despite a slower pace of growth. This year’s projection is only a half-percent increase from last year as rising inflationary pressures take a toll.

Independence Day Travelers by Mode of Transportation

By Car: AAA projects 61.4 million people will travel by car over July 4^th week, nearly the same number as last year when 61.3 million travelers took road trips. 85% of Americans traveling for Independence Day are expected to drive to their destinations.

Gas Prices: Given the recent volatility in gas prices, it’s too early to know what drivers should expect to pay at the pump. As of June 22, 2026, the Nebraska average is $3.66 per gallon, and Iowa residents are seeing an average of $3.53 per gallon, both decreases when compared to prices within the last month. Last year, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.15. In 2022, the national average was $4.80 on Independence Day. Visit GasPrices.AAA.com to view daily gas price averages.  

By Air: More than 5.8 million travelers will take domestic flights over the July 4^th week, a 0.2% increase over last year. Air travelers account for 8% of holiday travelers. According to AAA data, which is based on what travelers paid when they booked their Independence Day trips, round-trip domestic flights to top destinations like Chicago and Denver are 5% more expensive. Domestic flights overall are averaging about $830 a ticket.

By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is seeing the biggest year-over-year growth compared to car and air travel. AAA projects 4.93 million Americans will take buses, trains, and cruises over Independence Day week, a 5.3% increase from last year. This year is also expected to surpass 2019’s figure of 4.79 million travelers, due in large part to the post-COVID cruising boom. Travelers are drawn to cruise vacations because they know how much the trip will cost upfront, and the ship offers all-inclusive dining, various entertainment options, and multiple destinations.

Car Rentals: For travelers renting cars over July 4^th, AAA car rental partner Hertz expects Thursday, July 2 to be the busiest pickup day. Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York City are the cities with the highest demand based on advanced bookings. According to AAA booking data, domestic car rentals are 10% more expensive this holiday week compared to last year. AAA members receive discounted car rental rates when booking with Hertz.

AAA’s Top Independence Day Destinations

Travelers who booked their trips with AAA are heading to major U.S. cities over July 4^th week and flying internationally to Canada and Europe. AAA travel agents have seen a surge in demand for cruises to Alaska, which is why Seattle, Anchorage, and Fairbanks are all top domestic destinations. Independence Day fireworks and festivities in New York, Chicago, and Boston also draw big crowds. Florida ranks high thanks to theme parks, beaches, and cruise ports. On the international side, Vancouver tops the list, followed by major European cities like Rome, Dublin, Paris, and London.

Summer Safety on the Road

Impaired Driving: July 4^th week can be especially dangerous on the road with more teen drivers behind the wheel and a rise in impaired driving due to holiday festivities. That’s why AAA is urging drivers to commit to 100 Days of Safe Driving this summer. According to AAA crash data analysis, nearly one in three summertime traffic deaths involves an impaired driver. AAA, in partnership with MADD, reminds anyone who plans to drink or use impairing substances to arrange a sober ride before going out. The Auto Club Group will provide its Tow to Go program in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states from 6 pm Friday, July 3^rd to 6 am Monday, July 6^th.

AAA Roadside Response: Drivers preparing to take road trips should also prioritize car maintenance and stay on top of routine oil changes, plus check battery condition and tire pressure. Last year, AAA responded to more than 687,000 roadside assistance calls during Independence Day week. Half of those required towing services, and nearly 30% of those calls were for battery replacement and flat tires. Many of these issues could be prevented with a pre-trip inspection. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a AAA-Approved Auto Repair Facility near you.

Slow Down Move Over: While on the road, AAA reminds drivers to Slow Down, Move Over when approaching emergency responders and stranded motorists on the side of the road. Nationwide, nearly 350 people are struck and killed while outside a disabled vehicle each year. Drivers can save lives if they make it a priority to move over for all vehicles on the roadside, regardless of whether it is a tow provider with flashing lights or a driver of a disabled vehicle with its hazard lights on.

Best/Worst Times to Drive

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says the second weekend of the holiday period will be the busiest on the roads, starting Thursday, July 2. But in certain metros, like Boston, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, peak congestion is expected Saturday, June 27. Drivers looking to avoid the heaviest traffic should leave early in the day or consider traveling on Monday or Tuesday.

The times listed below are for the metro area's time zone. For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.

SOURCE: INRIX

Independence Day Holiday Travel Period

AAA’s Independence Day holiday travel period spans nine days and includes two weekends. This year, the dates range from Saturday, June 27 to Sunday, July 5. Historically, this holiday period included only one weekend. The expanded travel window was instituted starting in 2024, with historical results calculated back to 2019 using the new nine-day period.  

An expansion of the AAA Tow to Go program will be activated specifically for 2026 NCAA Men’s College World Series, June 12 - 22. With over 300,000 baseball fans and visitors expected in the region, AAA is offering this service to prevent crashes and save lives by keeping impaired drivers off the road.

“Impaired driving significantly increases the likelihood of a traffic crash. said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We want to remind fans to plan ahead and choose a designated driver, stay where they’re celebrating, or arrange other safe transportation, but if you find yourself without a sober way home during the tournament, call AAA and we’ll get both you and your ride somewhere safe.”

Tow to Go: Operating Details

When: June 12 – 22 from Noon – 10pm each day
Where: Downtown Omaha and surrounding area
What: Free tow and ride to a safe location (within 10 miles)
Who: Available to both AAA members and non‑members
How: Call (855) 2‑TOW‑2‑GO or (855) 286‑9246
Notes:

·         Confidential arrangements

·         Not available by appointment; last‑resort safety option only

·         Service may be limited due to severe weather and number of calls

·         Alternative safe‑ride arrangements may be made when needed

Partnership with Law Enforcement for Other Roadside Service Needs

AAA is partnering with the Omaha Police Department and their partner agencies to reinforce safe driving behavior throughout the tournament. In addition to the importance of a safe ride home, AAA will again be working with law enforcement to assist fans with additional courtesy roadside assistance needs [jumpstart, unlock, tire change, fuel delivery (up to two gallons)] Any fan in need of assistance is encouraged to reach out to a law enforcement representative to initiate and coordinate the response from AAA. 

“For the past 22 years, AAA has been pleased to provide this service to fans in need,” stated Nick Buhrman, Director of Automotive Services for AAA-The Auto Club Group.  “This valuable assistance is helping motorists get safely back on the road. The inclusion of Tow to Go it’s just one more way we can demonstrate genuine Nebraska hospitality to those visiting our great state.”

About Tow to Go

Tow to Go operates on most major holidays and during select special activations, offering a free ride to impaired drivers and their vehicles who do not have a safe alternative. Since 1998, the program has successfully removed nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from the road, saving lives. Click here to learn more.

Americans are gearing up for a busier year of travel in 2026, according to new findings from AAA’s Consumer Pulse™ Survey, which reveal a sharp rise in vacation intent, increased multi-trip planning, and an urgent need for travelers to better protect their plans.

AAA’s latest survey of 5,000 U.S. adults shows 39% plan to take more vacations in 2026 compared to 2025. This increase comes as more than half of Americans (58%) expect to take multiple trips this year, with 42% planning 2–3 vacations of 3 days or more.

Nebraska results show 35% plan to take more vacations in 2026 compared to 2025. 55% expect to take multiple trips this year, and 44% planning 2–3 vacations of 3 days or more.

Iowa results show 33% plan to take more vacations in 2026 compared to 2025. 49% expect to take multiple trips this year, and 34% planning 2–3 vacations of 3 days or more.

“Travel demand is not just holding, it’s accelerating,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With more Americans planning multiple trips, early planning and the right protection are essential.”

Key Highlights from AAA’s 2026 Travel Outlook

More travelers, more trips

·       US 39% plan more vacations than last year – NE 35% | IA 33%

·       US 42% will take 2–3 getaways in 2026 - NE 44% | IA 34%

·       US Only 19% expect to skip a vacation entirely - NE 21% | IA 23%

When they’ll travel

Holiday periods remain popular, with strong intent for Spring Break (28%), Thanksgiving (26%), and Year-End holidays (27%).

Nebraska - Spring Break (21%), Thanksgiving (22%), and Year-End holidays (26%).

Iowa - Spring Break (24%), Thanksgiving (18%), and Year-End holidays (24%).

Where they’re going

Top planned vacation types include road trips (45%), beach destinations (42%), and major metro areas (27%).

Nebraska – road trips (55%), beach destinations (25%), major metro areas (27%), and national/state parks (26%).

Iowa – road trips (47%), beach destinations (33%), major metro areas (23%), and national/state parks (23%).

The Travel Insurance Gap: Many Travelers Are Still Unprotected

Despite rising travel activity, the survey reveals a significant protection gap:

·       US - Only 28% of travelers plan to purchase travel insurance. NE 23% | IA 19%

·       US - 22% are unsure whether they will buy it. NE 22% | IA 21%

·       US - 22% of Americans say they are not informed about travel insurance benefits. NE 29% | IA 29%

·       That lack of awareness can lead to costly surprises. While most US residents know insurance can cover lost luggage (64%) and flight cancellations (64%), far fewer, only 46%, are aware that policies may offer compensation for flight delays as short as 3 hours.

Residents cite their top reasons for purchasing insurance as:

·       Trip cancellation protection (45%) NE 43% | IA 42%

·       Airline-related issues like delays or cancellations (42%) NE 41% | IA 42%

·       Severe weather disruptions (42%) NE 38% | IA 39%

·       Expensive or international trips (41%) NE 41% | IA 37% and 40%

“With higher demand and more people traveling during peak seasons, unexpected disruptions like weather, delays, or cancellations become more common,” Haas added. “Travel insurance safeguards your investment, especially for big, complex, or international trips.”

AAA Travel Agents can help travelers choose the right policy based on trip type, destination, timing, and personal needs to protect you and your wallet.

Travelers Also Leaning More on Travel Agents

The survey shows that 81% of Americans find travel agents valuable, a sign that travelers increasingly want professional support to optimize their vacations and navigate complex itineraries, evolving destination requirements, and crowds.  NE 77% | IA 76%

Travelers’ top reasons for using a travel agent include:

·       Saving money (36%) NE 35% | IA 31%

·       Expert suggestions and destination advice (36%) NE 33% | IA 35%

·       Help with complex or multi-leg trips (36%) NE 35% | IA 33%

·       Added perks and benefits (34%) NE 33% | IA 32%

“AAA Travel Agents provide the expert planning and problem‑solving that travelers want, especially when protecting their trip with the right insurance coverage,” the Haas said.

AAA Advice for 2026 Travelers

To make the most of 2026’s high-demand travel environment, AAA recommends:

1. Book early

Lock in the best rates, availability, and itineraries before peak seasons and preferred accommodations sell out.

2. Protect your trip with travel insurance

From weather-related disruptions to flight delays, medical emergencies, and cancellations, coverage can significantly reduce financial risk and stress. AAA Advisors can walk travelers through options and help match policies to specific needs and itineraries.

3. Use a travel agent

AAA Travel Advisors can help secure competitive pricing, exclusive benefits, and offer support before, during, and after your trip.

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among 5,000 residents living in The Auto Club Group territory from January 26 – February 5, 2026. Survey results asked for all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 1.4% points. State results have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+).

*West North Central (WNC): IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD

Nationwide, AAA expects 81.8 million Americans to travel for Thanksgiving. That’s an increase of 1.6 million travelers compared to 2024. Thanksgiving remains the busiest travel holiday of the year, surpassing both Memorial Day and Independence Day.

West North Central Thanksgiving Travelers

• Total Travelers: 6,547,000 (+1.8%)
• By Car: 5,895,000 (+1.3%)
• By Air: 306,000 (+1.8%)
• By Other Modes (bus, train, cruise): 345,000 (+12%)

“Iowans and Nebraskans are embracing the Thanksgiving spirit with record-breaking travel plans this year,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Whether it’s driving across the state or flying across the country, people are making time to connect with loved ones. Even with concerns about flight cancellations, travelers are showing flexibility and resilience and relying most on driving.”

Traveling By Car

AAA projects that nearly 73 million Americans will travel by car this Thanksgiving, representing almost 90% of all holiday travelers. In the WNC Region, more than 5.8 million residents will drive to their destinations. That number could rise if travelers opt to avoid potential flight disruptions.

Rental Cars: Hertz, AAA’s car rental partner, reports that Wednesday will be the busiest day for vehicle pick-ups. Good news for renters: domestic car rental rates are down 15% compared to last year.

Gas Prices: Drivers can expect gas prices similar to last Thanksgiving, when the national average was $3.06 per gallon. Nebraska’ average was $2.75 and Iowa saw a $2.71 average on Thanksgiving last year. AAA recommends filling up the night before travel and checking your battery and tire pressure. Last year, AAA responded to nearly 600,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide, many for dead batteries, flat tires, and empty fuel tanks.

Impaired Driving: AAA and MADD urge travelers to plan ahead and avoid impaired driving. Between 2019 and 2023, 868 people died in drunk-driving crashes during Thanksgiving, accounting for 35% of all traffic fatalities during the holiday period.

Traveling By Air

AAA expects 6 million Americans to fly domestically this Thanksgiving, a 2% increase from 2024. In the WNC Region, nearly 306,000 residents will take to the skies. Given recent flight reductions, that number could end up being lower as flights get cancelled or travelers make other plans.

Airfares: Domestic airfares are similar to last year, averaging $700 for a round-trip. Flying on Thanksgiving Day can offer savings but return flights on Sunday and Monday tend to be the most expensive. Some travelers are adjusting their schedules to avoid peak travel days.

“With recent flight reductions and the potential for last-minute cancellations, we encourage air travelers to build flexibility into their plans,” says Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA in Nebraska and Iowa. “Consider flying on less busy days, booking early morning departures when delays are less likely, and having a backup plan in case your flight is disrupted. Whether that means adjusting your return date or being ready to drive, a little preparation can go a long way in helping you navigate the unexpected.”

By Other Modes

Travel by bus, train, and cruise is expected to rise 8.5% nationally, reaching nearly 2.5 million travelers. Nebraska and Iowa residents contribute to the 345,000 who will travel by these modes, a 12% increase. Cruise travel continues to surge, with AAA projecting 20.7 million U.S. cruise passengers in 2025 and 21.7 million in 2026. Thanksgiving cruises to the Caribbean are especially popular for their warm weather and all-inclusive appeal.

Top Thanksgiving Destinations

The top holiday destinations listed below are based on AAA booking data for the Thanksgiving travel period. Florida is the most popular domestic destination, thanks to the area’s theme parks and cruise ports. The international list is a mix of Europe, the Caribbean, and Australia for its warm spring weather this time of year. 

Best/Worst Times to Drive

According to INRIX, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons will be the most congested travel times before Thanksgiving. Heavy traffic is expected all day Sunday as travelers return home. AAA recommends leaving early and staying alert for construction, crashes, or weather delays. Remember to Slow Down and Move Over for emergency responders and stopped vehicles.

Date                                                    Worst Travel Time                     Best Travel Time

Tuesday, Nov 25                           12:00 PM - 9:00 PM                    Before 12:00 PM

Wednesday, Nov 26                   11:00 AM - 8:00 PM                    Before 11:00 AM

Thursday, Nov 27                                         Minimal Traffic Impact Expected        

Friday, Nov 28                                1:00 PM - 7:00 PM                       Before 11:00 AM

Saturday, Nov 29                         1:00 PM - 8:00 PM                       Before 10:00 AM

Sunday, Nov 30                             11:00 AM - 8:00 PM                    Before 11:00 AM

Monday, Dec 1                              12:00 PM - 8:00 PM                    After 8:00 PM

Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology  

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000. 

Historical travel volume estimates come from MMGY’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM. The PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. MMGY contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.   

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was finalized the week of October 20, 2025. 

Because AAA holiday forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes, whether traveling for work or leisure. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors. 

INRIX Methodology 

INRIX blends statistically grounded models with real-world road behavior to forecast travel conditions on the most heavily traveled routes across the U.S. during peak holiday periods. INRIX’s holiday traffic forecast combines pre-selected high-impact travel routes, rich multi-source traffic data, and a statistically robust linear regression model to generate detailed, time-specific travel delay predictions. INRIX’s data sources include a wide array of vehicle-based and infrastructure-based inputs. These include connected vehicle GPS data, mobile apps and navigation services, roadside sensors and cameras, and commercial fleet telematics. With expansive coverage, high temporal resolution, and historical context, this forecasting process provides essential insights for travelers, media, and agencies alike. 

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Period  

The Thanksgiving holiday travel period is defined as the seven-day period from Tuesday, November 25 to Monday, December 1, 2025. This Thanksgiving travel window was instituted starting in 2024. Historical results were calculated dating back to 2019 using the same seven-day period.  

Downloadable B-Roll

The cruise industry is riding a wave of momentum into 2026. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will set sail on ocean cruises next year. That marks a 4.5% increase over 2025, which is already outperforming expectations with 20.7 million cruisers. The steady rise reflects strong consumer demand, expanded itineraries, and increased capacity across major cruise lines.

“Cruising is surging, with travelers booking more voyages and exploring new destinations in record numbers,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “From quick Caribbean escapes to bucket-list Alaskan adventures, the excitement is undeniable. With more ships, expanded itineraries, and rising demand, cruising continues to be the go-to vacation for unforgettable experiences at sea.”

Who is cruising?

Ocean cruising appeals to travelers of all ages, but older adults make up the majority of passengers. According to AAA, 65% of adult U.S. cruisers are 55 and older, while 27% are aged 35–54, and 7% fall between 18–34.

Cruising is also a shared experience for most. Nearly half of U.S. cruise passengers travel as couples, 20% cruise with children, 7% sail solo, and the remainder explore the seas in groups, proving that whether it’s a romantic escape or a multigenerational adventure, cruising brings people together.

What types of ships are they booking?

Ocean cruises come in different sizes, but as demand grows, so do the ships! Mega vessels are rising in popularity, especially in the Caribbean, where most of them sail. Mega-vessels are currently deployed in three of the four top cruise regions: the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. They are not operating in Alaska. In contrast, smaller vessels hold a greater share in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, driven by the presence of expedition cruises in the former and a strong luxury segment in the latter.

When will Travelers Sail?

Cruise season varies depending on the region. In the Caribbean, the busiest months are from November through March, following the end of hurricane season and during the colder winter months when many travelers seek warmer destinations. Although summer is not considered peak season in the Caribbean, prices often rise due to increased demand from families on school break.

In contrast, Alaska’s cruise season is shorter, running from April through October. This limited window contributes to strong demand during the summer months. Many travelers take advantage of this seasonal pattern by cruising Alaska in the summer and heading to the Caribbean during the winter.

Where are they visiting?

The Caribbean is by far the most popular cruise destination for Americans, capturing 72% of U.S. cruise passengers. That’s why Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale, all in Florida, are the busiest cruise ports in the world. 7% of U.S. passengers are expected to take Alaska cruises next year, and 5% are projected to cruise in the Mediterranean. The Caribbean’s popularity is also bolstered by the increase in shorter-length cruises, which passengers like because they’re convenient and cruise lines like because they can schedule more itineraries and sell more cabins.

Why Travelers Love Cruising

AAA travel agents hear from members every day who are eager to book their first or next cruise. According to AAA data, 90 percent of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experience as good or very good, and 91 percent have cruised more than once.

Cruising appeals to couples, families, and adventure seekers alike. From onboard entertainment and dining to curated excursions and exclusive access to private islands, cruise vacations deliver convenience, variety, and value. Many travelers also find cruising more economical than booking flights and hotels separately, especially when visiting multiple destinations. For those seeking more adventure, cruise lines now offer expedition-style itineraries to remote regions such as the Arctic and Antarctica.

How can I book?

Booking with a travel agent is the best way to understand your options and get the most value. Having an advocate back home is also helpful if there are any issues during your trip. AAA Trip Canvas allows you to browse cruise lines and destinations to get inspired and then take advantage of exclusive AAA member benefits.

“Whether you're dreaming of an ocean voyage, a scenic river cruise, or a land-based getaway, a trusted travel agent can help you navigate the options and find the best fit,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “They not only unlock exclusive member benefits, but also serve as your advocate before, during, and after your trip.”

Cruise Forecast Methodology  

In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2026 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. This forecast relies on cruise-related analytics from Cruise IP (Tourism Economics’ proprietary database for the cruise industry), economic forecasts prepared by Oxford Economics, and assumptions on the future path of the tourism industry.

In this analysis, U.S. cruise passenger volume refers to ocean cruises taken by U.S. residents. It includes cruises that depart from U.S. and international ports. 

About Tourism Economics

Tourism Economics is an Oxford Economics company with a singular objective: combine an understanding of the travel sector with proven economic tools to answer the most important questions facing our clients. More than 500 companies, associations, and destination work with Tourism Economics every year as a research partner. We bring decades of experience to every engagement to help our clients make better marketing, investment, and policy decisions. Tourism Economics operates out of regional headquarters in Philadelphia and Oxford, with offices in Belfast, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Frankfurt, and Ontario. 

Oxford Economics is the world's leading independent economic advisory firm. Covering over 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors and 8,000 cities and regions, we provide insights and solutions that empower clients to make informed decisions faster in an increasingly complex and uncertain world. For more information, visit oxfordeconomics.com.

The study reveals a self-perpetuating cycle: the more drivers encounter hostility on the road, the more likely they are to respond in kind and escalate tensions behind the wheel.

“Driving often turns into a high-stress experience, not just because others drive recklessly, but because we react in the moment,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA in Nebraska and Iowa. “Our research shows that even the calmest drivers can get drawn into road rage after a single hostile encounter, but with simple strategies we can all help make roads safer.”

Key Findings:

Aggressive Driving: 96% of drivers admit to driving aggressively in the past year. Their top motivators were to get to their destination faster and avoid perceived danger.

Violent Actions: 11% admitted to engaging in violent actions such as intentionally bumping into another car or confronting another driver.

Top Offenders: Motorists under age 60 and those with household incomes of $100,000 or more. While men and women are equally likely to drive aggressively, men are significantly more prone to escalating into violent driving behaviors.

Aggression Breeds Aggression: The more drivers are exposed to aggressive behavior on the road, the more likely they are to drive aggressively themselves.

The vehicle plays a role: The kind of car you drive could predict how you act and how others perceive you. Drivers in sports cars, big trucks, and motorcycles are often seen as more aggressive. Some drivers say they felt more powerful and dominant behind the wheel of these vehicles.

Historical Comparison

This latest study updates research originally conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in 2016, offering a look at how aggressive driving behaviors have shifted over time. While some behaviors have become more common, others have declined.

Since 2016:

·       Cutting off other vehicles is up 67%.

·       Honking out of anger is up 47%.

·       On the positive side, tailgating is down 24% and yelling at other drivers is down 17%.

AAA encourages drivers to prioritize courtesy and safety to help curb aggressive driving.

“Good road etiquette and being courteous to other drivers are the most effective ways to reduce aggressive driving and road rage,” Ortner said. “Small gestures like using turn signals, letting others merge, and offering a friendly wave can go a long way in creating a calmer driving environment for everyone.”

AAA Safety Advice

If You Encounter an Aggressive Driver:

1.    Stay Calm – Avoid eye contact, gestures, or responding.

2.    Give Space – Let them pass and keep your distance.

3.    Protect Yourself – Call 911 or go to a public place. Never drive home!

How to Control Road Rage:

1.    Breathe Before You React – One deep breath can reset your drive.

2.    Don’t Take the Bait – Ignore and avoid aggressive drivers.

3.    Choose Time Over Tension – Leave early, give space.

About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users. 

“Whether you're heading out for Labor Day weekend or planning a future getaway, now is a great time to book,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Domestic travel costs are trending lower, and while international airfare is up slightly, travelers will find savings on hotels, rental cars, and cruises abroad. With a wide range of destinations—from Alaska to Europe—drawing interest, smart planning now can lead to memorable experiences without breaking the budget.”

Key Trends in Travel Costs 

AAA data highlights that domestic travel is more affordable compared to last year in several key areas:

Domestic round-trip flights are 6% cheaper, averaging $720 per ticket. Popular destinations include Orlando, New York, Denver, and Atlanta. 

Hotel stays within the United States have seen an 11% decrease, with multi-night stays averaging $495. 

Car rentals are 3% less expensive, with the average cost for multi-day bookings at $545. 

The leading international destinations for Labor Day travel include European hotspots like Rome, Dublin, and London. Those heading abroad will find a 42% drop in international car rental costs (now an average of $645 for multi-day use) and a 9% reduction in cruise prices departing from international ports.

However, travelers taking international flights should prepare for an 8% increase in airfare, with round-trip rates averaging $1,470. International hotel bookings are moderately cheaper, with a 2% drop, bringing the average multi-night stay to $590. 

Gas Prices Expected to Remain Stable 

Drivers can expect gas prices to remain steady, with the Monday’s national average $3.16, it is lower than last year’s $3.35 per gallon. Unless disrupted by events like Gulf Coast hurricanes, prices should stay below 2024 levels. Average Prices in Nebraska and Iowa are trending lower as well as of today: Nebraska – Current $2.89 | 2024 $3.17 – Iowa – Current $2.87 | 2024 $3.14

Planning the Best Times to Travel by Road 

Transportation analytics firm INRIX recommends traveling early in the day to avoid congestion. Peak traffic is expected in the afternoon and early evening, especially on Saturday, as families head out for vacations and day trips.

Top AAA Destinations for Labor Day 

Domestic 

·         Seattle, WA 

·         Orlando, FL 

·         New York, NY 

·         Boston, MA 

·         Anchorage, AK 

International 

·         Vancouver, Canada 

·         Rome, Italy 

·         Dublin, Ireland 

·         London, England 

·         Paris, France 

From exploring bustling cities to enjoying quiet moments in national parks, this year’s trends reveal diverse preferences among travelers. AAA encourages early bookings and careful planning to avoid inconvenience and make the most of this long weekend.

“Before you finalize your plans, don’t forget to consider travel insurance,” said Haas. “It’s a smart way to protect both your trip and your wallet from unexpected disruptions—whether it’s a flight delay, a last-minute cancellation, or a medical emergency abroad. Especially during the busy Labor Day travel season, travel insurance offers peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your vacation, not worrying about what-ifs.”

“Traffic tends to spike during the first days of school as many parents opt to drive their children,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA—The Auto Club Group. “We advise adding 30 minutes to your morning commute. Drivers running late are more prone to speeding, which endangers lives.”

According to a recent AAA survey, more than half of Nebraskans regularly drive through school zones (63%) and nearly half drive by school bus stops (49%) during their daily routes.

ABC’s of School Zone Safety for Drivers:

A - Avoid distractions

Stay Focused on the road. No texting, eating or multitasking while driving.

B - Brake for safety

Slow down and stay alert. School zones are unpredictable, so be ready to stop at a moment’s notice.

C – Check for pedestrians and bicyclists

Watch for school zone signs, crossing guards, AAA School Safety Patrollers, and anyone walking or biking. Always yield and drive cautiously.

Other survey stats:

·         46% admitted to speeding in an active school zone.

·         34% admitted to using their hand-held cell phone while driving in active school zones.

“Reducing speed and eliminating distractions in school zones are critical,” Ortner emphasized.

Motor Vehicle Crashes are the Greatest Threat for Children

Nationwide, nearly 1 out of every 5 children (14 and younger) killed in traffic crashes are pedestrians. While drivers must remain vigilant, pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility.

“Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving,” Ortner said. “Now is the time to talk to your children about traffic safety. Discourage students from wearing earbuds or looking down at digital devices while standing at the bus stop or walking near traffic. Otherwise, they may not hear an approaching vehicle.”

AAA Safety Tips for Students

AAA – The Auto Club Group provides guidance for parents of young pedestrians, as part of its School’s Open Drive Carefully campaign. It also released the following advice:

For Walkers

Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid using headphones or looking down at your phone when near traffic.

·         Use sidewalks where available. If not, walk against the direction of traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.

·         Make yourself easier to be seen by wearing reflective, bright colored clothing.

·         Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street to make sure the vehicle is stopping.

For Bicyclists and Scooters

·         Always wear a helmet.

·         Ride with traffic and use bike lanes when you can.

·         Do not wear headphones so you can detect approaching traffic.

·         Cross streets at intersections- not from between parked cars.

For Bus Riders

·         Arrive at least 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

·         Stand five steps away from the curb.

·         Wait for the bus to stop completely and for the bus driver’s signal before boarding.  

School Bus Traffic Laws Explained

According to the AAA survey, 16% of respondents admit to driving around a school bus while its red lights are flashing, and its stop arms are extended. Nebraska law requires motorists to stop when approaching a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing and STOP arms extended.  

Here is an explanation of the laws:

·         Two Lane Street – All drivers moving in either direction on a two-way street must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal and must remain stopped until the road is clear of children AND the school bus stop arm is withdrawn.

·         Multi-Lane Paved Median – All drivers moving in either direction must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal and must remain stopped until the road is clear of children AND the school bus stop arm is withdrawn.

·         Divided Highway – Traffic approaching an oncoming school bus - The driver of a vehicle upon a divided highway need not stop upon meeting or passing a school bus which is on a different roadway or when upon a freeway and such school bus is stopped in a loading zone which is a part of or adjacent to such highway and where pedestrians are not permitted to cross the roadway.

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Nebraska from July 11 – 21, 2025.  A total of 400 residents completed the survey.  Survey results have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points.  Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure a reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Nebraska.

Today, most devices offer a "Do Not Disturb" feature designed to minimize distractions by silencing calls, messages, and notifications. Research from AAA indicates that when activated, this tool can effectively reduce smartphone interactions while driving.

Read the Full Report / Summary

"Although smartphones provide features to help curb distractions, many drivers simply do not use them," said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "The goal was to understand why drivers hesitate to embrace these tools and explore ways to encourage their adoption. Doing so would contribute to better focus on the road and enhance overall traffic safety."

Barriers to Adoption:

Researchers examined why drivers avoid using "Do Not Disturb" features and how to address their concerns:

• Misconceptions about functionality: Some drivers believe activating the feature will limit access to music and navigation, despite current technology allowing both functions to remain accessible. Other reasons include a lack of awareness about these settings or simply forgetting to turn them on.
• Fear of missing out (FOMO): Many people worry they’ll miss an important call or text when the feature is enabled, leading to hesitation in using it.

Despite these concerns, drivers expressed a preference for automatic activation in high-stress situations such as heavy rain, snow, or traffic—suggesting that they are more inclined to reduce distractions when greater focus is required.

Factors That Could Encourage Usage:

Drivers indicated that they would be more likely to use "Do Not Disturb" features if certain improvements were made, including:

• Better accuracy in detecting when a user is a passenger rather than a driver.
• Customizable controls over which apps are restricted.
• Potential insurance discounts for using the feature.

Generational Differences:

The study also found that younger drivers (ages 18–24), who are more prone to using their phones behind the wheel, tend to be more knowledgeable about "Do Not Disturb" settings than older generations. However, their confidence in using their phones safely while driving suggests they may not see the feature as necessary.

Research: 10-Week On-Road Study

To explore whether education and training could boost adoption, researchers conducted an on-road study with 18–24-year-old participants over a 10-week period. The first five weeks had no intervention, followed by five weeks using the "Do Not Disturb" feature. During the transition, participants were surveyed about their understanding of the feature, then provided training on its usage. Importantly, the feature was set to activate automatically when driving was detected, and participants were instructed to keep the setting on throughout the remainder of the study.

The Results

Before training –

• 50% of participants did not know their phone had a “do not disturb” feature
• 85% reported not knowing how to use it
• 65% did not know it could be set to turn on automatically when driving was detected

After training –

• 100% of participants knew their phone had a “do not disturb” feature, knew how to use it, and that it could be set to turn on automatically
• 41% decrease in smartphone interactions
• 6% less likely to pick up their phone
• Opinions of “do not disturb” features remained unchanged

“We’ve all witnessed how smartphones can lead to distraction and risky driving, but it’s possible these devices could help us to prevent it,” said Jake Nelson, Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy & Research for AAA. “Increasing the use of Do Not Disturb technology requires more than building awareness. It requires behavior-focused strategies, smarter automation, consistent reinforcement through social norms, and possibly small incentives.”

AAA recommends the following to encourage the use of “do not disturb” features while driving:

• Increase awareness through targeted public education campaigns
• Integrate education of “do not disturb” features into driver training and licensing programs
• Improve automatic activation and situational awareness features (i.e., recognizing when the user is a passenger versus a driver)
• Use reminders and incentives to encourage drivers to use “do not disturb” features
• Address misconceptions through in-app messaging
• Leverage influencers to promote the use of this technology, especially to younger audiencesEnter text here

"Regardless of whether cannabis is legal or prescribed, driving under the influence of the drug is illegal and extremely dangerous,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “When you drive high, your reflexes, focus, and decision-making can all go up in smoke. Driving in this state makes the highway a high-risk area for other motorists.”

A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety used surveys to gain a deeper understanding of cannabis consumers’ behaviors and perceptions of themselves. A few key themes emerged from survey respondents who are confirmed cannabis consumers:

• Daily and frequent consumption – 44.1% said they consume cannabis multiple times per day
• Driving regularly – 57.8% indicated that they drive daily
• Consuming then driving is common – 84.8% revealed that they drive the same day that they consume cannabis, with 53% saying they consumed an hour or less before driving
• Believe consumption has little effect on driving – 46.9% believe they either drive the same, a little better (14.7%), or much better (19.4%)
• Cannabis industry carries weight – 38.6% said they would trust messaging about cannabis use and safe driving from cannabis industry groups and cannabis brands/companies (37.3%)

“The road requires clear heads not clouded minds,” said Ortner. “If you plan to celebrate 4/20, find a safe ride before taking any impairing substances. This is critical so motorists are not in the position of having to decide if they’re sober enough to drive.”nter text here

‘Crashes Hit Different’ Campaign

The effort to educate motorists about the dangers of impaired driving and other risky behaviors behind the wheel is part of AAA – The Auto Club Group’s new traffic safety campaign “Crashes Hit Different.” On average, someone is killed in a car crash every 12 minutes on our nation’s roads, primarily due to four factors: impaired driving, distractions, not buckling up and speed. By partnering with roadway safety organizations, community groups, and drivers themselves, AAA aims to prevent these senseless tragedies.

Find more AAA information regarding cannabis-impaired driving here.

What is Tow to Go? Tow to Go operates on most major holidays and offers a free ride to impaired drivers and their vehicles who do not have a safe alternative. AAA has provided the Tow to Go program for more than 25 years. Since its inception, The Auto Club Group has successfully removed nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from the roadway.

How does it work? When someone calls Tow to Go, AAA dispatches a tow truck to transport the would-be impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. While the service is free for anyone, AAA asks that it be treated as a last resort.

“We’re proud to be that last line of defense, keeping people from driving impaired,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA Nebraska and Iowa. “We also remain committed to educating the public that it’s important to find a safe ride before drinking alcohol or taking drugs. This is critical so motorists are not in the position of having to decide if they’re sober enough to drive.”

Sobering Statistics: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest holidays on U.S. roadways. In 2020, more than 11,000 people died in drunk-driving crashes. Those deaths could have been avoided if the impaired drivers found a safe ride home instead of driving drunk. (NHTSA)

Service Area

Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Colorado (Denver), North Carolina (Charlotte), and Indiana (Fort Wayne/South Bend)

Phone Number

(855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246

Guidelines

 Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, March 14^th to 6 a.m. Tuesday, March 18^th.

• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

2025 Cruise Outlook

Cruise travel volumes will reach a record high for the third consecutive year. AAA forecasts 19 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2025. This is a 4.5% increase over 2024, when 18.2 million Americans went on cruise vacations. It’s also 34% more than the pre-pandemic peak of 14.2 million in 2019.

“The cruise industry’s focus on bigger ships, shorter itineraries and private islands has contributed to remarkable growth in recent years,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Cruise lines have introduced larger ships, which accommodate more guests and have an incredible range of amenities on board. It’s at the point now where the ship itself can be the destination. Many of these vessels sail on short 3–4-night itineraries, which allows for more frequent sailings and the opportunity to sample cruising while visiting a private island.”

Economic Drivers

There is reason to be optimistic about travel in 2025, as most indicators point towards continued growth in incomes and spending. Additionally, consumer surveys suggest the intent to travel remains strong and consumers still prioritize travel spending.

Popular Cruise Itineraries

Most Americans going on cruises this year are seeking fun in the sun!

·         72% of U.S. cruise passengers are heading to the Caribbean, making it by far the most popular destination. 6% are taking Alaska cruises and 5% will cruise in the Mediterranean.

·         The Caribbean’s dominance this year is on par with its pre-pandemic numbers in 2018 and 2019.

·         The Caribbean’s share dipped to 68% in 2022-23 as cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean surged, but destination shares have returned to pre-pandemic norms over the past year.

Shorter Caribbean cruises are rising in popularity. The most common cruise itineraries are 6 to 8 days, yet shorter itineraries are making waves. Cruises for five days or less are projected to rise from 2% of Caribbean cruises in 2023 to 18% in 2025.

The three busiest cruise ports in the world are in the same state: Florida! Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale are the busiest ports based on embarkation and debarkation. Miami landed the world’s largest cruise ship with the debut of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas last year. This summer, Port Canaveral welcomes the Icon’s sister ship, the equally large Star of the Seas.

“So much has been included on these new ships from fine dining to live entertainment, shopping, and activities for all ages,” Haas continued. “Cruising is like staying at a floating all-inclusive resort which delivers you to the world’s most beautiful destinations. It’s an appealing option for large and small family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and a great first trip outside the country.”

You Booked a Cruise ... Now What?!  

If you’re one of the 19 million Americans going on a cruise this year, AAA Travel has expert advice to ensure your trip is smooth sailing:

·         Work with a AAA Travel Agent. They can help setup all aspects of your trip and ensure you have proper documentation like passports, which are required for cruises to international destinations. AAA also offers additional benefits and savings that can be combined with what is provided by the cruise lines.

·         Reserve activities early. Whether it’s an excursion, specialty dinner, or spa treatment, your best bet is to reserve your spot ASAP. Popular cruise activities sell out fast!

·         Consider getting travel insurance to protect your investment in case of a medical emergency or another interruption during your trip. Remember, most U.S. health insurance plans do not cover you at international destinations.

·         Arrive the day before. If you’re flying into your port city, arrive a day or two before your ship is scheduled to depart. That takes the stress out of worrying about flight delays and cancelations, and it gives you time to explore your departure city. AAA travel agents can help book your flights to help you have a great experience from the time you leave home.

·         Have a parking plan. If you’re driving to your port city, decide ahead of time where you will leave your car. Most cruise ports offer parking right at the terminal, but like airports, those spots come at a premium price. To save some money, look for off-site cruise port parking options that offer a shuttle service. Another option is to look for hotels near the cruise port that offer “park & cruise” options. These packages allow you to stay at the hotel the night before your cruise and park your car there while you’re gone. The hotel will then take you to the cruise port on departure day and pick you up once you return.  

·         Download the cruise line’s app. You can check in for your cruise through the app, review the itinerary, complete the mandatory lifeboat drill, look at the daily program, and in some cases, open your stateroom door, order food, make dinner reservations, and text your friends. Best of all, you don’t need the ship’s internet package to use cruise line apps - they are free to use onboard!

·         Do your homework before packing. Check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items ahead of your trip. From irons and steamers to certain foods and beverages, each company is different, so take the time to look up what you can and can’t bring onboard or your items will be confiscated.

·         Items that come in handy. If you’re going on a Caribbean cruise, sunscreen is a must and bringing it from home saves you money. In general, sundries onboard are more expensive. If you take prescription medications, bring extra in case there is a delay during your trip. Magnetic hooks are popular with passengers who need extra storage space. Since cruise cabin walls are made of metal, hooks come in handy for hanging swimsuits and towels. Colorful beach towel clips are also useful at the pool deck to not only keep your towel in place but help you identify your lounge chair when you come back from taking a dip!

·         Embarkation dos and don’ts. Some cruise lines have scheduled embarkation times. Do arrive at your assigned embarkation time. Don’t try to get there early and hope they will let you on – they likely won’t. Don’t pack your passport or birth certificate in your suitcase. Always have your documentation with you including a copy of your boarding pass. If you do not have proper identification when you are checking in at the port, you will be denied boarding. If you check your suitcase with a porter, your bag may not arrive at your stateroom for a few hours. Pack a small carry-on with your swimsuit so you can change right away and start the fun!

·         Having fun? Run it back! If you’re enjoying your vacation at sea, look for the future cruise office onboard to book your next trip. There are often special promotions like onboard credits on top of the regular cruise line offers for bookings made onboard. Your travel agent back home will also be notified about your new booking. Just don’t wait until the last minute. The office gets busier as the final day of the cruise approaches, so stop by early in the trip, or make an appointment if the office takes reservations.

Cruise Forecast Methodology  

In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2025 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. This forecast relies on cruise-related analytics from Cruise IP (Tourism Economics’ proprietary database for the cruise industry), economic forecasts prepared by Oxford Economics, and assumptions on the future path of the tourism industry.

In this analysis, U.S. cruise passenger volume refers to ocean cruises taken by U.S. residents. It includes cruises that depart from U.S. or international ports. 

*West North Central (WNC): IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD

National travel numbers are also expected to set new records with an estimated 79.9 million travelers. The 2% growth equates to 1.7 million more people than the previous record set last year, and 2 million more than in 2019.

These record-setting traveler numbers are being driven by economic growth, declining inflation, and strong income gains, which is expected to boost consumer spending by 4.6% compared to this time last year.

“We expect to see record travel numbers across the board,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With more people taking to the roads, skies, rails, and sea; travelers should expect congested roads and longer lines at transportation terminals. AAA encourages travelers to develop their plan now and consider travel insurance, which provides compensation for flight cancellations, delays, and lost luggage.”

In effort to better capture the flow of holiday travelers, AAA expanded the number of days in the Thanksgiving holiday travel period. Instead of Wednesday-Sunday, this year’s Thanksgiving holiday travel period is seven days, stretching from Tuesday, November 26 to Monday, December 2. Additionally, we expanded our historical travel numbers to provide an apples-to-apples comparison.

 U.S. Travelers                Total                   Auto                   Air                       Other

2024                                 79.9 million       71.7 million       5.8 million         2.3 million

2023                                 78.2 million       70.4 million       5.7 million         2.1 million

2019                                 77.8 million       70.6 million       5.3 million         1.9 million

 WNC Travelers              Total                   Auto                   Air                       Other

2024                                  6.4 million         5.8 million         296,000              317,000

2023                                  6.2 million         5.7 million         291,000              280,000

2019                                  6.3 million         5.8 million         272,000              254,000

Thanksgiving Travelers by Mode

Automobile travel will set new records nationwide and across the WNC. AAA projects more than 5.8 million from the West North Central Region will take a road trip over Thanksgiving – that’s 82,000 more travelers than last year.

Gas prices are lower this Thanksgiving season compared to 2023. The national average last Thanksgiving Day was $3.26. The state average last year in Nebraska was $3.09 and in Iowa $2.92. Currently, drivers are finding an average price of $2.76 in Nebraska and $2.74 across Iowa. (Prices as of Monday 11/18). Visit GasPrices.AAA.com to view national, state, and regional gas price averages.

Falling oil prices this autumn may help push the national average below $3 a gallon for the first time since 2021, and that could happen before drivers hit the road for Thanksgiving. Regionally, drivers east of the Rockies will find gas between $2.25 to $2.50 a gallon in more than a dozen states.

AAA car rental partner Hertz says Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Oahu, Orlando, and Phoenix are the cities displaying the highest rental demand for the Thanksgiving holiday. The busiest car pick-up day is expected to be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and the busiest rental return days will be the Monday and Tuesday after the holiday.

Thanksgiving air travel is also expected to set a new record. Nationally, AAA projects 5.84 million people will fly domestically this holiday. That’s an increase of 2% compared to last year and a nearly 11% increase over 2019.  

Domestic airfares are up 3% this year, according to AAA booking data, while the number of bookings are similar to last year. International flight bookings are up 23% compared to last Thanksgiving, in part because the cost to fly internationally is down 5%.

Other modes of transportation increased 9% from last year. Nationally, nearly 2.3 million people are expected to travel by various transportation methods including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an 18% jump over 2019, in large part due to the popularity of cruising.  This is especially true across the WNC region as there is12.9 % growth over 2023 or 37,000 more travelers opting for other forms of holiday travel.

"The demand for cruises has been red-hot this year," Haas continued.  "Domestic and international cruise bookings are up 20% compared to last Thanksgiving. As new ocean and river cruising options have been introduced, more travelers are discovering the value and joy of cruising."

Best/Worst Times to Drive

According to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights:

• The worst times to travel by car over Thanksgiving are Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon.
• The best time to hit the road is Thanksgiving Day itself when interstates and highways are typically clear.
• Drivers returning home on Sunday should leave early in the morning, and those coming back on Monday should expect a mix of travelers and work commuters on the road.

BEST AND WORST TIMES TO TRAVEL BY CAR

DATE                               WORST TRAVEL TIME               BEST TRAVEL TIME

Mon, Nov 25                   1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST               Before 11:00 AM CST

Tue, Nov 26                    1:00 PM - 7:00 PM CST               Before 10:00 AM CST

Wed, Nov 27                   1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST               Before 10:00 AM CST

Thu, Nov 28                    (Thanksgiving Day)                      Minimal Traffic Impact Expected            

Fri, Nov 29                      7:00 AM - 10:00 AM CST              After 1:00 PM CST

Sat, Nov 30                     4:00 PM - 8:00 PM CST               Before 1:00 PM CST

Sun, Dec 1                      12:00 PM - 6:00 PM CST             Before 1:00 PM CST

Mon, Dec 2                      9:00 AM - 6:00 PM CST               Before 8 AM / After 7 PM CSTSOURCE: INRIX

AAA’s Top Thanksgiving Destinations

The common theme among the top 10 domestic destinations is warm weather! Four Florida cities are on the list because of their beaches, theme parks, and cruise ports. Other top destinations include New York, California, Hawaii, and Las Vegas. Internationally, Europe and the Caribbean dominate the list thanks to their beach resorts, tourist attractions, and river cruises. The top Thanksgiving destinations listed below are based on AAA booking data from Tuesday, November 26 to Monday, December 2.

AAA’s Road Trip Tips

• Get a full vehicle inspection before setting out on your trip.
• Leave early and allow extra time to get to your destination, so you are not in a rush.
• Identify alternate routes in case you encounter congestion or road closures.
• Avoid distractions while driving. Program your GPS before your drive.
• Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears their seatbelt.
• Never drive impaired.

AAA’s Air Travel Tips

• Check-in early online.
• Monitor your flight status using your air carrier’s mobile app.
• Arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
• Pack medications and an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag, just in case your flight is delayed or cancelled.

Tips for Air Travelers who Have Not Booked their Flight Yet:

• Book a flight that leaves early in the day. Flights in the afternoon and evening are more susceptible to delays and cancellations.
• Book a direct flight. Otherwise, build in extra time between connections, in case your first flight is delayed.
• Consider traveling on Thanksgiving Day. This could offer the best combination of availability and price.

“It’s not too late to purchase travel insurance, which can be extremely valuable for air travelers,” Haas said. “There are policies that can provide compensation for flight delays for as little as three hours. And if a flight is cancelled, passengers can receive compensation for covered out-of-pocket expenses.”

AAA Reminds Drivers to ‘Move Over for Me’

With more people sharing the roads, the danger is multiplied for those on the roadside. AAA reminds motorists to slow down and move over for first responders, tow trucks, and any motorist with a disabled vehicle on the side of the road.

“We want to make sure all holiday travelers, tow truck drivers and first responders make it home safely this Thanksgiving,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “All drivers can help by moving over for flashing lights, whether it’s a tow truck or a disabled vehicle with its hazard lights on. Even if it adds a few minutes to your commute, that small gesture could save a life.”

Per AAA research, 70 percent of all U.S. households would have trouble covering everyday living expenses after just a few months if the primary wage earner was gone. And, according to a new study from LL Global, a record number of American adults – 42%, or 102 million people – say they need (or need more) life insurance. That’s alarming because life insurance is an integral part of a financial plan, no different than a budget or savings account.

“The best way to think about life insurance is to think about everything that makes your life so worthwhile,” said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA. “How would you want to protect your loved ones? What do you want for their future? When you take a couple minutes thinking about how life insurance can factor into your family’s financial security, you can get back to what really matters: Spending time with those you care about.”

AAA offers the following things to think about this Life Insurance Awareness Month:

How much life insurance do I need?

As a rule of thumb, your life insurance policy should equal six or seven times your current salary. Or you can determine what your policy needs to cover by subtracting your assets from your financial responsibilities - but accurately finding that number is a lot easier said than done. Use this calculator to help inform your needs, then speak with a specialist to talk about life insurance options.

Is employer-provided insurance enough?

While it’s a nice benefit to have, life insurance through work is a perk, not a plan.

If your family relies on your income to make ends meet, this kind of coverage just won’t be enough. Most employers offer one or two times your salary in coverage, meaning your family could be OK for the first year or two. But what happens in year three, four, five, and so on?

What’s more, your coverage is often tied to your employment, so if you change jobs, you may lose that insurance.

Remember, life insurance can cover a lot of expenses – debts such as your mortgage, medical and funeral bills and estate taxes – and those expenses add up, fast. Most folks will want more coverage than they can get through work.

 Do you need insurance if you’re young and healthy?

It’s unlikely that you’d need your life insurance as a young, healthy person, in the statistical sense that you’re less likely to get sick and pass away. However, life insurance is typically less expensive and easier to get the younger and healthier you are.

If you wait until you are chronically or terminally ill, you may find your ability to purchase insurance to be a little more limited.

If you’re single and you don’t have dependents, you might think you don’t need coverage. Here’s the problem: If you pass away unexpectedly when you’re young, you may leave behind a lot of unpaid expenses for your family or executor to deal with. Life insurance guarantees those expenses can get paid so that your family will never need to worry about them.

Do you need insurance if you’re nearing retirement?

Some folks who are near retirement age will say, “Well, the house is paid off and the kids are out of college, so my family is covered, and I don’t need life insurance.” That may be true, depending on your financial picture. But increasingly, people live longer – and can spend 20-30 years in retirement. Good life insurance can make up for losses in your retirement nest egg, and make sure your spouse or partner will be OK financially even if you haven’t closed the gap in retirement savings.

Is life insurance expensive?

Per research from LIMRA, 78% of Americans overestimate the true cost of a basic term life policy. To wit, 44 percent of millennials said they thought the cost of a policy was $1,000+ per year.

In reality, a simple term life insurance tends to offer low and more flexible premiums compared with other kinds of insurance. The younger and healthier you are when you buy your coverage, the less expensive the policy will be. As you age, you can always choose to expand your coverage.

What’s the difference between term and permanent life insurance?

Having a positive discussion about life insurance means understanding its types.

Term life insurance is for a fixed period, such as 10 or 20 years. If you die during the specified period, your beneficiary will be paid a death benefit—or the face value of the policy.

Permanent life insurance is designed to remain in place for your entire life, for which your beneficiary receives the death benefit. In addition, you may be able to borrow from the cash value or surrender the value when canceling the policy.

What if I have a preexisting condition?

Though it could be an obstacle, having a preexisting condition doesn’t automatically mean you won’t be able to buy life insurance. Consult with a licensed insurance agent about policies that may not require a medical exam, as well as about life insurance designed for people with specific preexisting conditions, such as cancer and diabetes.

 When should I think about life insurance?

Life Insurance Awareness Month is a great time to revisit your coverage. Still, you should get in the habit of reviewing things regularly. Be sure to look at any big life changes! If it’s worth celebrating, it’s worth covering.

• If you recently got married, you’ll want to make sure your coverage can support your spouse and any shared expenses.

 • Did your household grow? Life insurance policies can cover the costs of raising a child, as well as future expenses – like college tuition.

 • Did you buy a new house? Life insurance will make sure your family will always have a place to call home.

Where should I start?

Talk to a local agent: Insurance should be unique and tailored to your family, and life insurance is no different. An agent can help you find the best coverage option that works for your life and your financial picture, all while helping you put a plan in place for the future. Coverage options include debt, future college tuition, loss of income, and other family financial goals.

“Life can be a little better and a little less stressful knowing your loved ones are protected,” Ortner said. "And that's what insurance is all about."

"Buying a new car can be exciting," stated Greg Brannon, AAA's director of automotive research. "But consumers should fully understand all the costs of owning and operating a new vehicle from purchase to resale.”

Depreciation, the difference between the car's value upon purchase and when sold, is the most significant cost category associated with vehicle ownership in this year’s analysis. On average, cars in this year's YDC lose a staggering $4,680 annually. The popularity of oversized vehicles with cutting-edge features has led to an increase in new car prices, which results in higher depreciation costs. 

Other factors driving new ownership costs:

·       Car Prices—The sales-weighted average manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for new vehicles in the study is $38,883, an increase of 0.7% over last year. It’s important to note the MSRP may not always reflect the actual purchase price and can vary based on demand. The average MSRP for each vehicle category is weighted based on its share of the total vehicle sales. This means higher-selling categories, such as pick-up trucks, have a larger impact on the average value.

·       Finance Charges—A higher sticker price directly impacts finance costs, with this year's vehicles incurring an average annual finance charge of $1,332, a 6% increase from the previous year. *Please note: Sticker price increase may be due to vehicles replaced in YDC.

This year, EVs have the second-highest total ownership costs due to depreciation, purchase prices, and finance charges. Preferences have shifted to more expensive and larger EVs, resulting in growth in these cost categories.

EVs have the lowest fuel cost of any vehicle type, based on a national average electricity price of 15.9 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). Plus, because of their design and powertrain, EVs have the lowest maintenance costs.

Hybrid vehicles have the second lowest total ownership costs behind small sedans. They benefit from excellent fuel economy and low maintenance costs and rank near the middle in depreciation, financing, and insurance costs. According to this year’s EV consumer sentiment survey, one in three U.S. adults (31%) say they would be “very likely” or “likely” to buy a Hybrid.

“Hybrid vehicles are a reasonable, affordable option for those who want to try the benefits of electrification,” said Brannon. “Hybrids benefit from excellent fuel economy, low maintenance costs, depreciation, and insurance – making them an affordable option for car buyers.”

NEW – Special Analysis Comparing Cost of EV and Hybrid Ownership to Gas-Powered

This year, AAA expanded YDC by comparing top-selling EVs and Hybrid models in four popular vehicle categories - medium sedan, compact SUV, medium SUV, and pickup truck. Over the past few years, their growth in popularity has been a significant trend, requiring automakers to expand their lineups to include more appealing models. This bonus analysis will give consumers a snapshot of ownership costs for select EV and Hybrid models compared to their gas-powered counterparts. Learn more.

Car Buying Advice

With higher purchase prices impacting other cost categories, it’s important to remember these car-buying tips when researching all options:

o   Create a monthly or annual budget and factor in ownership and operating costs before purchase.

o   Keep each transaction and negotiation separate from the other – the cost of the car, the finance rate, and the trade-in value.

o   Obtain pre-approval from a financial institution (e.g., Bank, Credit Union, AAA, etc.) before discussing finance rates with the car dealer to ensure you get the best lending rate available to you.

o   There are quite a few options (online and in-store) available to consumers when considering where to buy a used vehicle besides a dealership. Visit your local AAA, which may offer discounts for members.

Additional AAA Support: 

o   Your Driving Costs calculator: Customizable digital tool that offers cost analyses for specific vehicles by category, new and used cars (up to five model years back).

o   AAA Car Guide: Annual guide that ranks and rates vehicles with the latest automotive technology.

o   AAA’s Car Buying Program: Comparisons for consumers to use while car shopping and buying.

o   EV 101 (Digital Buyer's Guide): Resource and educational guide for consumers to use while electric vehicle shopping and buying. 

* Repair Cost Calculator: Repair costs breakdown for parts and labor, including AAA member discounts available when visiting AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.

Methodology
Overall YDC Analysis

AAA uses a proprietary methodology to calculate the costs of owning and operating a new car in the United States. Data is gathered from various sources, including Vincentric LLC, and incorporates standardized criteria to estimate the costs of using a new vehicle for personal transportation over five years and 75,000 miles of ownership. The use of standardized criteria ensures that AAA estimates are consistent when comparing the driving costs of different vehicle types. Actual driving costs will vary based on driving habits, location, operating conditions and other factors.

AAA evaluated nine categories of vehicles – consisting of 45 models – to determine a new vehicle’s average annual operating and ownership costs. AAA selects top-selling, mid-priced models and compares them across six categories: fuel, maintenance/repair/tire costs, insurance, license/registration/taxes, depreciation, and finance charges. The study assumes a five-year ownership period, with the vehicle being driven 15,000 miles/annually (or a total of 75,000 miles).

EV & Hybrid Cost Comparisons

AAA evaluated four categories of EVs and Hybrids – consisting of 11 total models – compared them across six cost categories: fuel, maintenance/repair/tire costs, insurance, license/registration/taxes, depreciation, and finance charges. The study assumes a five-year ownership period, with the vehicle being driven 15,000 miles/annually (or a total of 75,000 miles).

Due to a limited number of models with significant sales available in many vehicle categories, only four vehicle categories were selected (medium sedans, compact and medium SUVs, and pickup trucks) for analyzation and comparison to those corresponding ICE categories.  Therefore, overall results from the EV/Hybrid analysis cannot be directly compared to the overall results from the regular YDC study.

“Americans see the extended Labor Day weekend as an opportunity to say farewell to summer with one final trip,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Since many kids are already back in school, regional road trips tend to be the most popular option for families. Because of that, others see this as an opportunity to travel the world, with the expectation of smaller crowds at popular sites.”

Popular Labor Day Travel Trends

Domestic Travel

Overall, domestic travel over Labor Day weekend is up 9% compared to last year, while the cost to travel domestically is down 2%.

According to AAA booking data, Alaska cruises are sold out for the weekend. Smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, make this a popular travel trend this time of year. That’s why Seattle is the number one Labor Day weekend* destination, up nearly 30% from last year when it also topped the list. Anchorage and Juneau are also on the top ten list of Labor Day destinations.

“If you’re interested in going on an Alaska cruise next summer, the time to book is now to lock in the best rate and ensure you get the type of cabin and scenic views you want,” Haas.

Other top Labor Day destinations include Orlando, New York, Boston, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, and San Francisco.

International Travel

International travel over Labor Day weekend is down 4% compared to last year, per AAA booking numbers. Contributing factors include inflation, which has driven up international travel costs by 11%, and timing with many people having taken international summer vacations. The majority of people who did book international Labor Day trips with AAA are visiting European destinations. Eight out of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA are European cities.

Travelers renting a car abroad should consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is a key resource recognized by international authorities. Some countries – including Italy and Spain – require it. AAA is the only entity in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue an IDP.

Top Labor Day Destinations

Labor Day Weekend Travel Pricing

·       Domestic airfares are 2% cheaper this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

·       International flights are 8% cheaper this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

·       Domestic hotels are 7% more expensive this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

·       International hotels are 2% more expensive this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

·       Domestic car rentals are 16% cheaper this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

·       International car rentals are 21% more expensive this Labor Day weekend compared to last year.

Protect your Trip with Travel Insurance

Increasingly travelers are protecting themselves and their wallet with Travel Insurance, which can be added up until the time of travel. Travel insurance could save you thousands if something goes wrong before or during your cruise, tour, hotel stay or even car rental. See AAA.com/TravelInsurance for more information.

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, as those times will be the most congested. Drivers should hit the road in the morning unless they’re leaving on Saturday when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon. Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.  

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

Gas Prices

Travelers taking road trips should expect to pay less for gas compared to last year. The national average over Labor Day weekend in 2023 was $3.81. In recent weeks, gas prices have remained steady, hovering around $3.22 across Nebraska and Iowa. Despite the popularity of summer road trips, overall gas demand is down as daily driving habits have changed post-pandemic, tempering price spikes. Hurricanes hitting the Gulf and affecting regional refineries could cause gas prices to go up as the peak of the season approaches in September. For drivers taking road trips in their electric vehicles, AAA now offers information on the cost of Level 2 commercial EV charging and updates that data weekly.

AAA Expects to Rescue 300,000 Stranded Motorists

Nationwide, AAA expects to rescue more than 300,000 stranded motorists during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The three most common reasons are flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts. These could be avoided by having your car inspected before leaving for your destination and bringing an extra set of keys.

“The best way to avoid spending your holiday on the roadside is by getting a full vehicle inspection before your trip,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “This will help ensure everything from your battery to brakes is in proper working order.”

In the event of car trouble: 

• 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 are aware you are there.
• Get to the nearest exit or stopping point if possible.
• Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert and close to your vehicle. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

Move Over for Roadside Workers and Stranded Motorists

Florida law requires drivers to slow down and move over for first responders, emergency workers and stranded motorists with their hazard lights on. Although that law doesn’t go into effect until January, AAA urges drivers to begin following the law now.

“AAA’s roadside technicians will put their lives on the line to rescue hundreds of thousands of drivers during Labor Day weekend,” continued Jenkins. “We urge drivers to stay focused on the road and if you see flashing lights, move over so everyone can make it home safely.”

How Drivers can Prevent Roadside Collisions:

• Remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on driving.
• Constantly scan the road ahead. This will help you identify and avoid potential hazards.
• Move over a lane when approaching a vehicle on the roadside with flashing lights. If you can’t move over, slow down to safely pass them.
• Watch for people on the roadside. People may be in or near a disabled vehicle. Just because you don’t immediately see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there.
• Be a good passenger - Help identify roadway issues and remind the driver to slow down and move over.

*Labor Day Weekend

AAA looked at booking data for Thursday, August 29 through Monday, September 2, and compared those numbers with booking data for that same five-day period in 2023.

About INRIX

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com. 

AAA – The Auto Club Group, Nebraska will be hosting TSA PreCheck® enrollment events in collaboration with IDEMIA, an authorized TSA PreCheck® enrollment provider, during the month of August.

Travelers will be able to enroll or renew their TSA membership at one of two locations. 

1. AAA Bellevue Branch Office, 3905 Twin Creek Drive Suite 103, Bellevue, NE 68123:

Monday August 5^th through Friday August 9^th from 9:00am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 5:00pm each day.

2. AAA Omaha Clocktower Branch Office, 815 N 98th St. Omaha, NE 68114:

Monday, August 12^th through Friday August 16^th from 9:00am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 5:00pm each day.

The TSA PreCheck® application program is open to U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, and Lawful Permanent Residents. This event is open to all, you do not need to be a AAA member to take advantage of this TSA Event. Walk-ins are welcomed but appointments will be prioritized.

Visit: https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/programs/precheck  to access the application page

“AAA expects air travel to set new records for continued summer and year-end holiday trips,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “This means crowded airports and potentially longer lines at TSA security checkpoints, so we encourage travelers interested in bypassing the general line to visit our AAA offices for this time saving travel opportunity.”

The enrollment process is quick, convenient, and even faster when the application is completed online beforehand.  During the in-person appointment, applicants are required to provide identity and citizenship documents, fingerprints and a photo will be captured, and then pay for the application fee. IDEMIA offers TSA PreCheck® enrollment for $85 and if approved, travelers will be enrolled in a five-year membership with the program.

Following the in-person enrollment appointment, most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in about three to five days. The KTN number must be added to flight reservations to enjoy TSA PreCheck® benefits. 

TSA PreCheck® was created October 2011 to provide low-risk travelers with a smoother experience through airport security. It’s a great option for travelers looking to save time. Enrolled members have access to TSA PreCheck® dedicated screening lanes at over 200 participating U.S. airports nationwide, and 99% of members wait 10 minutes or less in a screening lane. TSA PreCheck®passengers’ travel with ease by keeping their shoes, belts and light jackets on.  They also can keep their laptops, along with 3-1-1 liquids and food items in their bags.

A new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals the COVID-19 pandemic's deadly impact on traffic safety in the United States. Researchers at the AAA Foundation found dangerous behaviors like speeding, not using seatbelts, and impaired driving contributed to a significant rise in fatal crashes compared to pre-pandemic times.

Notably, the new research highlights a disparity in the pandemic's impact on traffic safety. The study highlights several key findings:

• Risky driving spiked: Speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol remain significant contributors to fatal crashes.
• Lack of seatbelt use: The increase in occupant deaths was almost entirely among those not wearing seatbelts.
• Fatal crashes across age groups: Drivers and victims of all ages up to 55 saw a significant rise in fatal crash involvement, with men disproportionately affected.
• Late-night danger zone: Contrary to initial assumptions, the increase in fatal crashes wasn't limited to times when the pandemic cleared previously congested daytime roads. Late nights and early mornings saw the most significant spikes.
• Unequal impact: The pandemic exacerbated existing disparities in traffic safety. Socially and economically disadvantaged counties and racial and ethnic minorities were disproportionately impacted.

"Our study points to an ongoing disturbing trend of risky driving behaviors, which we noted in previous research earlier in the pandemic,” said Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation. "There are still far too many road users who lose their lives in preventable crashes. The findings from this latest AAA Foundation study underscore the importance of addressing traffic safety from an equity perspective – communities across the United States must provide safe transportation options to meet the needs of their users."

Foundation researchers found that 114,528 people were killed in traffic crashes on U.S. roads from May 2020 through December 2022, a 17% jump in traffic deaths (nearly 17,000 additional fatalities) compared to what would have been expected under pre-pandemic trends. Traffic deaths outpaced forecasts the most for young adults (20-24), with teens (16-19) taking the top spot in 2021. Men consistently exceeded estimates by 14-19%, while women only did so in 2021 (15% increase).

Black and Hispanic Americans, already disproportionately affected by traffic fatalities, saw even more significant increases from 2020 through 2022.  Similarly, those with lower educational attainment experienced a much sharper rise in fatalities compared to college graduates. Black Americans, who comprise approximately 12% of the U.S. population, accounted for approximately 34% of the entire rise in traffic fatalities relative to how many would have been expected based on the pre-pandemic trend. Hispanic Americans, 19% of the U.S. population, accounted for approximately 25% of the increase.

The research underscores the need for:

• Equitable transportation solutions: Providing safe transportation options for vulnerable populations benefits everyone.
• Holistic safety approaches: Addressing broader traffic safety issues beyond just the pandemic's effects.
• Safe System framework offers a comprehensive strategy to improve overall road safety.

"It’s time for transportation leaders to walk the talk about curbing traffic deaths," said Jake Nelson, AAA’s director of traffic safety and advocacy. "I think this research illuminates a path towards zero traffic deaths for the nation, which is to target resources and solutions to the people who experience a disproportionate burden of traffic deaths on our roads--lower socioeconomic and minority groups.”

West North Central Region (WNC) - IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD

“The summer travel season is off to a hot start and we expect to set new travel records on the road and in the sky during the week of Independence Day,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “There will be 3.5 million more travelers than last year.  That means even more people at airports and popular attractions like beaches, lakes, and theme parks.”

Independence Day Holiday Travel Period

AAA’s Independence Day travel forecast measures domestic trips of 50 miles or more during a 9-day period from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7.

Economic trends influencing the travel forecast

Despite concerns about inflation, total travel is increasing on growth in consumer confidence, wages, and continued strength in consumer spending.

·       Consumers are expected to increase spending by 5.5% compared to a year ago.

·       Real GDP growth will remain modest, rising by 2.5% from last year.

·       After falling steadily since January, consumer confidence moved up in May.

·       Gas prices for May averaged $3.26 in Nebraska and $3.19 in Iowa, ($0.04 lower NE and $0.12 lower IA) than a year ago.

Road Travel

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – that’s an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number also surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car over July 4^th week.

Meanwhile, road travel in in the WNC will set a record for the second consecutive year. More than 4.3 million are expected to take a road trip. That’s 158,000 more than last year.

“Road travelers should prepare for congestion in the afternoon and evening hours, particularly near larger metro areas, theme parks and popular attractions,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With so many people on the road it’s important to be patient, minimize distractions while driving, and move over for people on the roadside.”

Gas Prices

Nebraska and Iowa drivers are currently paying less on gasoline, where the average price on Sunday, June 23, was $3.19 in Iowa and $3.16 in Nebraska. It is expected that drivers will pay less than they did last year on Independence Day, when the state average was $3.35 Iowa and $3.33 Nebraska. Gas prices have been moving lower as of late. However, that downward trend could reverse course if oil prices rise because of geopolitical tensions or a hurricane that threatens oil rigs and refineries along the Gulf of Mexico.

Air Travel

The number of domestic air travelers is also expected to set a record. Nationally, AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4^th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019.

AAA booking data shows domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week compared to last year, and the average price for a domestic roundtrip ticket is $800. Airports will be packed throughout the week. AAA recommends arriving 2 hours early, reserving parking ahead of time, and traveling with carry-on luggage versus checked bags to save time and money.

Other Modes of Transportation

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million. Numbers in the West North Central Region continue to increase with 543,000 using other modes of transportation, an increase of 35,000 over last year.

“Cruising continues experiencing remarkable growth,” Haas said. “This time of year, Alaska cruises are in high demand, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations. Cruise travelers are also finding deals this summer. With new ships coming onto the market – and going for a premium – working with a Travel Advisor is a great way to ensure you’re getting the best value for your vacation. Travel Advisors are also able to help you choose a travel insurance policy that protects you and your investment for the impact of unexpected events before and during your trip.”

Best and Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4^th are between 2pm and 7pm. Drivers should hit the road in the morning, and travelers returning on Monday, July 8^th should avoid rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon.

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3^rd, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.

Source: INRIX

Source: INRIX

Top Destinations

This July 4^th week, travelers are cooling off in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska – and by the ocean! Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage are top destinations because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Beaches in South Florida, Honolulu, Punta Cana, and Barcelona are in high demand. Historical sites in European cities like London, Rome, Dublin, Paris, and Athens are also popular. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.

Family Road Trip Checklist

With road trips expected to set a new record this July 4^th week, AAA teamed up with Chicco to share safety tips for families with small children.

·       Check car seat fit. Before you hit the road, check your child’s weight and height to ensure they’re in the right seat and mode of use – especially when it comes to transitioning from rear to forward-facing. Children should remain rear-facing as long as possible for better protection of their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. If you are unsure which car seat is best for your child, Chicco offers a car seat comparison guide.

·       Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. An easy at-home way to do this is with the “inch test.” Simply grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved. For any questions, utilize the car seat manual, QR codes, or online resources like those offered by Chicco.

·       Secure loose items in the car. Take time to organize and clean up your car before hitting the road. Storage organizers that secure to the back of the driver and passenger seats are simple solutions to make sure everything has a spot, especially loose items that can become projectiles in case of a sudden stop.

·       Be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares. Make sure your phone is fully charged - and keep a charger in the car – to call AAA or request roadside assistance digitally if your battery dies, you lock yourself out, or you need a tow.

·       Map your route. Families with young children should plan for frequent and longer stops along the way. Map out your route ahead of time with AAA TripTik and browse hotels, restaurants, and other activities along the way on AAA Trip Canvas.

·       Bring entertainment. Make sure to place toys and books within reach to keep children entertained. If your kids use tablets or other electronics, make sure the devices are fully charged and pre-downloaded before leaving home. Another fun way to get the whole family excited for the road trip is to create a family playlist of everyone’s favorite songs!ter text here

“For more than 20 years, AAA has been pleased to provide this service to CWS fans in need,” stated Nick Buhrman, Director of Automotive Services for AAA-The Auto Club Group.  “This valuable assistance is not only helping motorists get safely back on the road, it’s just one more way we can demonstrate genuine Nebraska hospitality to those visiting our great state.”Enter text here

The Auto Club Group has provided the Tow to Go program for more than 25 years, removing nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from U.S. roadways. When someone calls Tow to Go, a tow truck is dispatched to transport the vehicle and its owner to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This service is free, regardless of whether the caller is a AAA member.

·       Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, May 24^th to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 28^th.

·       Free confidential rides are provided for AAA members and non-members.

“By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications,” said Brian Ortner, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “However, we remind people to treat Tow to Go as a last resort. Instead, make advanced plans for a safe ride home, because you do not want to be remembered on Memorial Day as the person who made the fatal mistake of driving impaired.”

TOW TO GO

TOW TO GO GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Friday, May 24 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 28^th.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec, and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings, and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

·       Vehicle Maintenance 
·       Tow Truck Drivers on the Roadside 
·       Roadside Collisions and Near Misses

Nebraskans and Iowans are forecast to travel in near record numbers for Memorial Day weekend. According to AAA’s 2024 Memorial Day Travel Forecast, nearly 3.1 travelers from the West North Central Region ((WNC): IA, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD) will journey 50 miles or more.

Unfortunately, many of them will experience car trouble. Nationwide, AAA expects to rescue more than 378,000 stranded motorists, during the holiday weekend – an increase of 5% from last year. The three most common reasons drivers call AAA are for flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts.

“As you finalize your travel plans for the holiday weekend, make sure your vehicle is ready for the road,” said, Brian Ortner, Public Affairs Specialist for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We encourage all drivers to get a pre-trip inspection of their tires, battery, brakes, and other basics. This could help prevent a breakdown before it happens.”

AAA Tips to Prevent Car Problems

·       Check your tires – Pay special attention to both tire inflation pressure and tread depth. Be sure to inspect all four tires and the spare tire if your vehicle has one. 
·       Listen to and feel the brakes – If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection. 
·       Check your battery – The average car battery life is typically 3-5 years. If your engine is slow to start and/or your lights are dim, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. Drivers can ask for a battery check at a AAA Car Care Center or Approved Auto Repair Facility. AAA can also come to a member’s location to test and, if needed, replace the battery on site. 
·       Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner – Rubber wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 6-12 months. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades. 
·       Top off engine oil and other fluids – Check that engine oil, coolant and brake, transmission and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in the owner’s manual. 
·       Replenish emergency kit supplies – AAA recommends keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

 AAA Tips for Drivers who Experience Car Trouble

• Get to the nearest exit or stopping point if you are safely able to do so.
• 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 are aware you are there.
• Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.
• If you exit your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit. Quickly move to a safe location. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

AAA Resources for Your Road Trip

·       Find an AAA Approved Auto Repair Facilities near you. 
·       Use AAA’s Repair Cost Estimator to determine estimated repair costs, including parts, labor and a AAA member discount. 
·       Use AAA’s Gas Cost Calculator to determine the estimated fuel costs for your trip.

Safe Driving Tips

Preparing your vehicle is one thing. It’s also important that drivers are personally ready to focus on the road. AAA provides the following safe driving habits, as a reminder for drivers: 
·       Watch your speed – For more than two decades, speeding has been involved in approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. Be sure to drive the speed limit and lower your speed if conditions warrant. 
·       Watch the road – Distracted drivers kill thousands of people every year. Taking eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles the risk of a crash. Potential distractions include cell phone use, eating, drinking, or interacting with other passengers. Focusing on the road enables drivers to spot and avoid potential hazards that could otherwise lead to a crash. 
·       Rest up – Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. AAA recommends drivers get plenty of rest before a big road trip. During a drive, take breaks every 100 miles or two hours. Motorists should pull over if they find themselves getting tired. 
·       Drive Sober – Drugs and alcohol negatively impact the important brain functions needed for driving safely: judgement, motor skills, memory, and reaction time. AAA urges everyone to avoid driving after ingesting any substance that could impair their ability to drive.

Move Over for Roadside Workers and Stranded Motorists:

Fatal roadside crashes are a growing problem nationwide. Every year, nearly 350 people are struck and killed outside a disabled vehicle. Additionally, on average, one tow operator is killed at the roadside every other week. These deaths can be avoided if drivers follow the law and move over.

 “AAA’s roadside technicians will put their lives on the line to rescue the hundreds of thousands of drivers on the roadside with car trouble,” continued Ortner. “We urge drivers to stay focused on the road and its shoulders. Whether it’s a first responder, tow truck or disabled vehicle, if you see flashing lights, move over so everyone can make it home safely for the holiday.”

Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, March 15^th to 6 a.m. Monday, March 18^th.
 

How does it work? When someone calls Tow to Go, AAA dispatches a tow truck to transport the would-be impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. Since its inception, this life-saving program has removed more than 30,000 impaired drivers from the road. The service is free for anyone, yet AAA asks that it be treated as a last resort.

“We’re proud to be that last line of defense, keeping people from driving impaired,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We also remain committed to educating the public that it’s important to find a safe ride before drinking alcohol or taking drugs. This is critical so motorists are not in the position of having to decide if they’re sober enough to drive.”

Sobering Statistics: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest holidays on U.S. roadways. In 2020, more than 11,000 people died in drunk-driving crashes. Those deaths could have been avoided if the impaired drivers found a safe ride home instead of driving drunk. (NHTSA)

TOW TO GO

SERVICE AREAS

FL, GA, IA, MI, ND, NE, TN, WI, CO (Denver), NC (Charlotte), IN (Fort Wayne/South Bend)

PHONE NUMBER

(855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246

 GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Friday, March 15^th to 6 a.m. Monday, March 18^th.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

With Daylight Saving Time approaching (Sunday, March 10 at 2 AM), the darker mornings and lost hour of sleep will lead to more drowsy drivers. Recently published research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals the shocking lethality of drowsy driving. The study, based on in-depth crash investigations and national fatal crash data, estimates that drowsy driving is a factor in roughly ten times as many traffic fatalities as traditional crash data indicates. Drowsy Driving Study

“This study should be a wakeup call for drivers to not underestimate the dangers of drowsy driving,” said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Whether you’re driving to work or taking the family on a road trip, stay alert or get off the road.”

According to the new Foundation study, drowsy drivers were involved in:

·         18% of all traffic fatalities between 2017 and 2021, accounting for nearly 30,000 deaths.

·         6,725 estimated deaths in 2021 alone.

These figures are far higher than official government statistics, highlighting the underreported nature of drowsy driving crashes. According to NHTSA, there is agreement across the traffic safety, sleep science, and public health communities that the impact of drowsy driving is underestimated.

Drowsiness impairs drivers in different ways:

·         Reduced alertness: Makes it harder to react quickly to hazards. Just one hour less than the expert-recommended minimum of 7 hours of sleep increases a driver’s risk of crashing.

·         Impaired judgment: Increases the risk of making poor decisions on the road. Sleep deprivation increases a driver’s risk of making many ordinary mistakes, leading to crashes. Those deprived of sleep by 4+ hours have an impairment similar to those over the legal BAC limit.

·         Hazardous Microsleeps: Can cause momentary lapses in consciousness, leading to loss of control of the vehicle and failure to respond to dangers on the road.

·         Self-Perception of Drowsiness: Previous Foundation research found that drivers often underestimate their drowsiness, putting themselves and others at risk.

Warning Signs of Drowsy Driving 
According to the CDC

·         Frequent yawning or blinking

·         Trouble remembering the past few miles driven.

·         Missing your exit.

·         Drifting from your lane.

·         Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road.

Who’s at greater risk of drowsy driving and related crashes and deaths?
According to the CDC

·         Teen and young adult drivers

·         Drivers on the road between midnight and 6 a.m. or in the later afternoon.

·         Drivers who don’t get enough sleep.

·         Commercial truck drivers.

·         Drivers who work the night shift or long shifts.

·         Drivers with untreated sleep disorders – like sleep apnea, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts.

·         Drivers who use medicines that make them drowsy.

What can drivers do to avoid drowsy driving?

·         Get enough sleep before driving. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night.

·         Don't underestimate the power of a quick nap. A 20- to 30-minute nap can significantly improve your alertness.

·         Travel at times of the day when you are normally awake. Avoid driving when you are tired or sleepy.

·         Listen to your body. If you start to feel tired, pull over and take a break. Don't try to push through it.

·         Take breaks every two hours or 100 miles. Get out of the car, stretch your legs, and get fresh air. Plan and identify safe, comfortable places to take breaks. Don’t wait until you’re already feeling drowsy.

·         Travel with an alert passenger and take turns driving. Sharing the driving can help you stay awake and alert.

·         Avoid heavy meals before driving. Eating a large meal can make you feel tired and sluggish.

·         Avoid alcohol and drugs. Both can impair your driving ability. Besides harming driving directly, they can also amplify drowsiness.

AAA supports the development of vehicle technology that can detect drowsiness and prevent drivers from operating a vehicle when impaired. This technology could help to save lives by preventing drowsy driving crashes.

About the AAA Foundation

Established in 1947 by AAA, the Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.

“The travel season is already off to a hot start in 2024,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Americans continue to make travel a top priority, and AAA travel agents have been busy planning a wide range of vacations from weekend getaways to world cruises.”

According to the survey, the most popular times to travel are from March through August. 
For many travelers, their first vacation of the year will be during spring break. According to the survey, less than a quarter (23%) of Nebraskans will take a Spring Break vacation. Some of the most popular trips include the beach (25%), city/major metro (26%), resort/all inclusive (12%), lake destination (11%) and theme park (11%).

“This time of year, many travelers are looking for warm weather, pools, beaches, and outdoor adventures,” Haas said.

If there’s one place that defines Spring Break, it’s Florida. AAA Travel booking data shows the Sunshine State tops the list of Spring Break destinations. Florida’s beaches, family-friendly attractions, and cruise ports make Florida a logical choice for in-state and out-of-state travelers seeking some fun in the sun. While Orlando is the top choice for Spring Break travelers, Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports.

Cruising is off to a splashy start in 2024 with sold-out ships and inaugural sailings, and that strong demand is evident in Spring Break bookings. AAA Travel data shows a 28% increase in cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year, and a 60% percent increase for cruises departing from South Florida.

Good to Know: More travelers are booking cruises farther in advance, which is one of AAA Travel’s cruising trends this year. Many Spring Break cruises have been sold-out for months. Last-minute bookings are possible, but prices may be higher and cabin choices limited.

AAA Advice: If you miss the boat for Spring Break, AAA Travel suggests booking a summer cruise now before they sell out, especially if you’re eyeing popular destinations like Alaska.

AAA Trip Canvas Tips: For families traveling with teens, check out the best cruise lines for teenagers.

·         Best for Onboard Activities:  ROYAL CARIBBEAN

·         Best for Teen Clubs: CARNIVAL

·         Best for Families with Kids of Different Ages: DISNEY CRUISE LINE

·         Best for Recreational Tournaments: PRINCESS CRUISES

·         Best for Entertainment Options: HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

·         Best For Family Accommodations: CELEBRITY CRUISES

International Spring Break trips are also on the rise compared to last year. AAA data for March and April shows international flight bookings are up 20% and hotel bookings are up 37%. European cities top the list of most popular destinations: London, Paris, Rome, Dublin, and Amsterdam.

“More AAA members are also booking tours for their international Spring Break vacations,” Haas continued. They want the convenience, expertise, and peace of mind that guided travel brings.”

AAA Advice: Planning ahead is critical, especially when traveling internationally. AAA recommends travel insurance which provides coverage for accidents, illness, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, lost luggage and more.

AAA Advice: If you plan to drive at your destination, don’t forget to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip. An IDP is a document that translates a valid U.S. driver’s license into several different languages. Most countries highly recommend an IDP and several countries require it. AAA is the only entity in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue an IDP.

AAA Trip Canvas Tips: For travelers who want to visit popular European cities but can’t decide on which one, check out these tours that cover multiple destinations.

·         Treasures of Europe

·         London and Paris

·         Italian Vistas

·         Netherlands, Belgium, and France

·         Best of Ireland and Scotland

Browse more cruises and find travel inspiration on Trip Canvas, AAA’s free travel-planning tool.

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Nebraska from January 24-28, 2024.  A total of 400 residents completed the survey.  Survey results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points.  Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Nebraska.

Reverse Auto Collisions

Reverse Pedestrian Collisions

New AAA research reminds drivers to not put too much trust in their vehicle technology, especially when driving in reverse. AAA studied the effectiveness of technology designed to prevent drivers from backing into a pedestrian or approaching vehicle.

View the summary

“Although this technology has proven to significantly reduce rear-end collisions, they are not foolproof,” said Gene LaDoucer, regional director of public affairs, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Drivers are urged to remain alert and not become overly reliant on the technology.”

AAA studied four vehicles that combine Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking (Reverse AEB) and rear cross traffic mitigation. These systems are designed to detect rear cross-traffic and automatically apply brakes to avoid colliding with other cars, pedestrians, cyclists or stationary objects.

Research Overview

AAA conducted primary research in a closed-course environment to understand the performance of reverse AEB systems with rear cross traffic mitigation in challenging scenarios. Read the full report.

AAA Engineers wanted to answer two questions:

1. How do evaluated reverse AEB systems with rear cross traffic mitigation perform when backing out of a parking space into path of oncoming vehicle with an adjacent parked vehicle obstructing view?
2. How do evaluated reverse AEB systems perform when encountering a static simulated child pedestrian behind the vehicle?

Four popular 2023 model year vehicles equipped with reverse AEB with rear cross traffic mitigation were evaluated within this research. Only reverse AEB systems with the ability to detect and automatically brake for rear-cross traffic were eligible for testing.

Results

1. Reverse AEB systems automatically applied brakes in 65% of test runs and prevented a collision in 2.5% of test runs in the context of backing-up scenarios involving a subject vehicle crossing behind the test vehicle.
2.  With the stationary child target behind the test vehicle, reverse (AEB) automatically applied brakes in 75% of test runs and prevented a collision in 50% of test runs.

Analyzing Reverse Collisions and the Heightened Risk for Child Pedestrians

Reverse AEB is reported to be the most effective ADAS in terms of property damage liability claim reductions, while injury and fatality reductions were less pronounced than that of front AEB. Backing collisions usually happen between vehicles at a significantly lower speed resulting in a lower injury and fatality rate relative to collisions that may be mitigated by front AEB. However, children are particularly susceptible to back-over incidents in driveways and parking lots. 

NHTSA estimates that every year, there are approximately 210 fatalities and 15,000 injuries caused by back-over collisions. Of those fatalities, approximately 31 percent are children under five years old. In addition to vehicle-to-vehicle collisions, it is important to evaluate the effectiveness of these systems in preventing or mitigating collisions with pedestrians, especially children.

AAA’s Advice for Drivers

1. Always back up cautiously, especially when an object obstructs your view. Pause once the rear of the vehicle has cleared the obstruction to give these sensors time to detect a potential collision and bring the vehicle to a stop.
2. Drivers should not rely on reverse AEB systems to prevent collisions when backing up. Instead, consider the use of backup cameras and other sensors as a way to enhance your awareness. 

Check out Fixing Advanced Vehicle Systems Makes Up Over One-Third of Repair Costs Following a Crash.

Methodology

In partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, AAA selected four popular 2023 model year vehicles equipped with reverse AEB with rear cross traffic mitigation. Only reverse AEB systems with the ability to detect and automatically brake for rear cross traffic were eligible for testing. It was determined that all test vehicles would be small to medium SUVs due to the popularity of these categories. The “2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid”, The “Limited AWD 2023 Lexus RX 350 “Premium,” The “2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo AWD “Premium Plus Package” and the “2023 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T “SEL R-Line."  Refer to the full report for methodology details, including specific testing equipment and test track characteristics.

“Ice dams are more common in northern parts of the U.S., but they can form anywhere there are drastic temperature shifts,” said Gene LaDoucer, regional director of public affairs, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “It’s important to know what you’re looking for, because this can lead to costly repairs to your attic, walls, ceilings, insulation, and flooring.”

How to Spot Ice Dams

• You have icicles that form along the edge of your roof and/or gutters.
• Ice has developed along the overhangs of your roof, or your gutters are filled with ice.

How Ice Dams Form

1.  Ice dams form when heat inside the house enters the attic and melts snow on the roof.
2.  The melted snow drips down your roof and re-freezes when it reaches the colder eaves (the part of the roof that overhangs the wall). This ice accumulation is called an ice dam.
3. As more melted snow travels down the roof, it begins to re-freeze sooner, pushing its way under the shingles.
4. The water then finds holes in the roof decking—between sheets of plywood or around nails—and begins to drip into your attic.

“Once the water is inside your house, it can cause paint to peel, floors to warp, and soggy insulation. If that water is left unattended, it could lead to mold and mildew,” LaDoucer continues. “Additionally, ice dams may cause some damage to the roof by loosening shingles, rotting the wood or tearing off gutters.”

What to do if you have Ice Dams?

First, don’t panic. Second, call a professional. While breaking off ice can seem like a simple task, if the ice is not removed properly, you risk causing more damage to your home or even injuring yourself in the process. Hire a licensed contractor with experience in ice dams to remove it properly and assess if you have any damage to your home.

“If you notice water damage or leaks coming into your home, contact your insurance provider immediately to review your plan’s coverage and file a claim,” says LaDoucer. “Many policies have ice dam coverage, but exclusions could apply.”

“Even if you don’t have damage, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance agent to make sure you fully understand your coverage options,” LaDoucer continued. “This will provide the comfort in knowing you’re prepared for anything Mother Nature throws at you.”

How to Prevent Ice Dams from Forming

The key to ice dam prevention is to keep your roof the same temperature as your eaves. There are several ways to accomplish this before snow begins accumulating:

• Increase attic ventilation through the use of soffit, gable and ridge vents to help circulate air through the attic, ensuring a consistent temperature.
• Examine your insulation to make sure it’s not blocking the vents and check its depth.
• Prevent heat from escaping into your attic by ensuring all attic ducts are sealed and properly insulated and any exhaust fans lead outdoors, not to the attic.
• Consult a professional if your attic is a living space, you need vents installed or insulation added.

While keeping the bottom couple of feet of the roof and gutters clear of snow can help minimize ice dams, the safer, more effective, and longer lasting solution is to fix the insulation inside the attic. Never get up on your roof to shovel the snow off or try to remove ice dams yourself. If you have major ice dams that have formed, you can call for a professional to come remove them. When choosing which company to hire for the removal, be sure to ask about their methods as chipping or sawing away at the ice can cause damage to the shingles.

With the season’s most frigid temperatures on the way, AAA reminds homeowners and renters that preparing for inclement weather is essential to avoiding wintertime repairs. Prolonged periods of below freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on a home’s heating system, plumbing, and exterior features.

“Maintaining your property is essential to reducing your risk of winter damage,” said Gene LaDoucer, regional director of public affairs, AAA-The Auto Club Group. “Taking small steps now can help you avoid high repair costs and headaches down the road.”

AAA Insurance reports the average regional frozen pipe claim costs more than $11,000, though the amount can be much higher depending on damage to personal property.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Home

• Remove hoses from exterior faucets.
• Repair or replace weather stripping around windows and doors, vents and fans, plumbing, air conditioners and electrical and gas lines.
• Use caulk or insulation to seal all cracks, holes and other openings on exterior walls.
• Let faucets drip a little bit to prevent freezing pipes.
• Well-insulated basements and crawl spaces will help protect pipes. Close foundation vents and windows to basements. Wrap vulnerable pipes with pipe insulation.
• Know where your water shutoff valve is so that you can turn off the water in case of an emergency.
• Air inside the walls, where pipes are, can be much colder than air in the room, so set the thermostat at a reasonable temperature, even if you will be away from home.
• Keep bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around the pipes.
• Close your wood burning fireplace flue damper when you’re not using it. Follow all manufacturer instructions for gas fireplaces including those with pilot lights, which may require the flue to be partially open at all times.

What to do if you Experience Winter Damage

Once conditions are safe to do so, document the damage by taking photos and video. Employ any safe measures to prevent the damage from spreading. Then contact your insurance provider immediately to file a claim. The sooner you start the process, the faster you can repair the damages.

Winter Damages Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Winter comes with snow, and sometimes lots of it. If your roof collapses or is damaged due to the weight of snow or ice from a storm, a standard home insurance policy may cover the damage.

Another threat to your home in the winter season are cold snaps. Water left standing in pipes when the temperature drops may expand with enough force to cause it to burst, leading to serious water damage if the issue isn’t immediately identified. Damage caused from burst pipes as well as the repair costs are covered by most standard home insurance policies, as long as regular maintenance is performed, and owners maintain heat in the building.

What’s Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Most storm damage is covered under Home Insurance, however there are exclusions that could apply.  

Flash floods caused by a sudden rise in temperature during the winter months can cause significant damage to your home that will not be covered by your standard home insurance policy, but flood insurance can be purchased separately.

Most damages not covered by insurance are due to homeowner neglect or lack of maintenance. These may include damages resulting from extreme cold due to failure to maintain heat in your house.

More Winter Liabilities

In addition to the above risks, slips and falls on your property are always possible in the winter. Such incidents are likely covered by the liability coverage that comes with your home insurance policy, but it’s a good idea to double check with your insurance agent. If you do experience an incident like this, help with potential legal aspects may also be included in your policy.

Is Your Home Insurance Ready?

By taking the necessary precautions and preparing your house for winter, you can avoid having to make an insurance claim this winter season. Trimming threatening trees, shutting off your water and drainpipes, and cleaning your gutters are all things that can be done before it gets too cold.

If a winter disaster does strike, having the right home insurance coverage will help. Review your policy with your agent to be sure you’re ready. Residents can visit AAA.com/Insurance to find an insurance agent near them.

AAA - The Auto Club Group worked with community partners and the Office of the Governor on a proclamation to promote the protection of all motorists on the roadside in order to strengthen the existing "Slow Down, Move Over" law, Statute 61-6,378

"While all 50 states have a Slow Down, Move Over law, nearly a quarter of motorists don't know these laws exist or how they vary from state to state," explains Brian Ortner with AAA Nebraska. "This proclamation helps bring awareness that motorists can help those outside disabled vehicles stay safe by moving over and slowing down for every vehicle that is on the roadside." slow down move over factsheet.pdf (aaa.com)

Nebraska's current law protects roadside workers and their vehicles including first responders, tow trucks, and utility vehicles, but does not yet cover municipal vehicles, road maintenance or disabled vehicles. Research shows that nearly 350 people are struck and killed every year while outside a disabled vehicle on the roadside in the United States from 2016-2020, In Nebraska an average of 8 people are killed.

To protect emergency responders, AAA and other traffic safety advocates have led the way in getting Move Over laws passed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. This year, we will be working to add Nebraska to the list of the 9 others states that now have comprehensive slow down move over laws. Those states amended or added to their current statutes in 2023. A change in Nebraska would be an amendment to current law. The AAA Move Over for Me campaign, launched in October 2022, is a way to remind drivers of the importance of paying attention, slowing down, and moving over when they see others at the side of the road working or stranded with a disabled vehicle. Slow Down, Move Over: Roadside Worker Safety Matters | AAA

AAA's tips to protect roadside workers and stranded motorists:

For Drivers:

• Remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on driving.
• Keep an eye out for emergency vehicles – including tow trucks – that have their lights on as well as cars that have their flashers on. Move over one lane when you see them and if you can't move over, slow down to safely pass them.
• Be a good passenger. Help identify roadway issues and remind the driver to slow down and move over.
• Watch for people on the roadside. People may be in or near a disabled vehicle. Just because you don't immediately see them doesn't mean they aren't there.

For Stranded Motorists:

• 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 are aware you are there.
• If you are able to safely make it to the next exit or stopping point, do so.
• Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it's safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert and close to your vehicle. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 64 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

"Whether you plan to book a flight, cruise or visit a theme park, it's best to get ahead of the holiday rush and finalize your plans now," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "This will help ensure you get the itinerary you want at a competitive price. While it's possible that those who wait until the last minute could catch a lower rate, their preferred options may already be gone."

Thanksgiving Travel

More than half of Nebraska travelers (54%) are planning a trip with at least one overnight stay for Thanksgiving. According to the survey, the largest share of travelers will lock in their Thanksgiving travel plans during September. By the end of the month, 46% will have already booked their trip. View the survey

Tips for booking flights during Thanksgiving week

The busiest travel days will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday. Consider booking a flight Sunday or Monday before Thanksgiving and Saturday after the holiday. Airports should be less busy and flights should have more availability.

Christmas Travel

The timing is more spread out for Nebraskans who are planning a trip for Christmas. Only 8% have already finalized plans, as many will wait until October (27%) and November (29%) to book.

Tips for booking flights for Christmas

Regardless of what date Christmas falls on, most travelers depart two to four days prior to the holiday. Since Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year, travelers should expect the busiest days at the airport to be Friday and Saturday, before the holiday.

AAA's Advice for Booking a Flight

• Book early for the best combination of availability and price. Most travelers want to skip layovers and get right to their destination. That means nonstop flights, especially those going cross-country and internationally, will fill up fast.
• Book a direct flight that leaves early in the morning. Afternoon and evening flights are more susceptible to delays/cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Connecting flights multiply the risk of something going wrong.
• Consider traveling a day or two earlier than planned. Even if you face delays, you are still likely to arrive on time.
• If your flight has connections, build in a couple hours between flights. This way, if your first flight is delayed, you are less likely to miss your second one.

Flight Concerns

Nearly one-third of holiday travelers (30%) say they are less likely to fly this year because they're concerned about flight delays and cancellations. AAA urges travelers to consider travel insurance, which provides financial compensation if your flight is affected by covered reasons like severe winter weather, which can ruin your plans.

"Given recent challenges with air travel, we are seeing more and more passengers opt for travel insurance," Haas said. "Travel Insurance is such a valuable resource for air travelers, because it provides financial benefits for lost or delayed luggage, flight cancellations, and flight delays of as little as three hours."

More People are Gifting Experiences Instead of Presents

AAA travel advisors say they're seeing more people gift travel experiences to loved ones instead of presents. That means those people are already thinking about the holidays. "I just booked travel for one family who's surprising their children on Christmas morning with a trip to Disney World, leaving later that same day! That family was sure to book early to get exactly what they wanted," said Cady DeBlois, a travel advisor for AAA.

YOLO (You Only Live Once) is Replacing Bucket Lists

After three years of a pandemic, many travelers are tackling their bucket lists now! "I've had travelers tell me, I don't know what my health will be in 5 or 10 years, let's go abroad this year," said Jodi Abata, AAA travel advisor, who frequently books international trips for AAA members. "There seems to be a sense of adventure from more people now. They don't want to delay travel any longer."

Europe, Cruises, and Theme Parks Sell Out in Advance

European travel is booming this year, and the holidays will be no exception. AAA travel advisors say touring Christmas markets in Europe is extremely popular and itineraries sell out in advance. River cruises are also in high demand during the holidays, along with Caribbean cruises. Theme parks are a holiday favorite among families with kids when students are on winter break. DeBlois added, "I've already booked theme park vacations for Christmas 2024! That's how eager many families are to get their holiday plans on the books."

AAA will release its Thanksgiving Travel Forecast in early November.

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About the Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Nebraska from August 1-7, 2023. A total of 400 residents completed the survey. Survey results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Nebraska.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

This is the 25^th year The Auto Club Group has provided the Tow to Go program. When called upon, The Auto Club Group dispatches a tow truck to transport the driver and vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius for free. Since its inception, Tow to Go has removed more than 25,000 impaired drivers from the road.

• Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5.
• Free confidential rides available to AAA members and non-members.

"By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications," said Gene LaDoucer, regional director of public affairs, AAA – The Auto Club Group. "However, we remind people to treat Tow to Go as a last resort. Instead, make advanced plans for a safe ride home."

GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec, and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings, and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

"It's important for car buyers to clearly understand the costs associated with owning a new vehicle," said Greg Brannon, AAA's director of automotive research. "Due to global supply chain issues and constrained inventory of new vehicles, car prices rose dramatically in 2022. And while the situation continues to improve, the spillover effects are keeping prices high."

The overall average manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the new vehicles in the 2023 YDC study is $34,876. This is $1,575 (4.7%) higher than last year.https://newsroom.aaa.com/2022/08/annual-cost-of-new-car-ownership-crosses-10k-mark/ It is important to note that MSRP does not always correspond to a consumer's actual purchase price and may vary depending on demand. Furthermore, a higher sticker price directly impacts finance costs, with this year's vehicles boasting an average annual finance charge of $1,253, a staggering 90% increase from the previous year.

The change in the annual cost of owning a new vehicle is also likely driven by:

• Depreciation, which is the difference between the car's value upon purchase and the value of the car when sold. According to this year's YDC projections, new vehicles are expected to depreciate by an average of $4,538 per year over five years of ownership, up 24% over 2022.
• The jump in new vehicle prices (up almost $1,600) compared to used vehicle values that have experienced a decline in the past year.
• Automakers across the board have focused on producing more oversized, luxurious, and expensive vehicles, loaded with extra features that bump up prices even more.

Compared to last year, one of the higher annual cost categories was fuel, but this year's average cost per mile has decreased by roughly 2 cents per mile. It's worth noting that the cost of charging EVs has actually increased, by almost 2 cents per kWh over last year, from 13.9 cents per kWh to 15.8 cents per kWh. The increase is likely accounted for by higher-than-expected inflation, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Given their size, fuel economy, and prices, it should come as no surprise that ½-ton pickups have the highest average driving cost among all vehicle categories covered in the YDC study. Interestingly, the pickup truck market has slowed over the last 12 months as gas prices trend high and financial costs climb. Pickup trucks excel at hauling and towing, although many buyers do not use them for these purposes. Potential buyers should remember that the unique capabilities of pickups come at a high cost of over $1 per mile.

"The once popular pickup truck is now seeing a slight decline in demand as these vehicles have become increasingly expensive, rivaling the price of many luxury cars," said Brannon. "As interest rates continue to climb, this adds a layer of expense per month that consumers should consider when shopping for their next vehicle."

AAA CAR BUYING ADVICE

With the purchase price being so high and impacting other cost categories, it's important to remember these car-buying tips:

• Know all the expenses associated with ownership to negotiate the best deal.
• Start early! Due to limited inventory, consumers may have fewer choices regarding a specific vehicle model. They may have to wait for delivery or even pre-order the vehicle of their choice.
• Before discussing finance rates with the car dealer, obtain pre-approval from their financial institution (e.g., Bank, Credit Union, AAA, etc.). By getting pre-approval, they will have a threshold of the best lending rate they'll pay. Buyers can use their pre-approval to negotiate if the dealer offers a higher rate.
• Create a budget and factor in the different elements of ownership before purchase – not just monthly payments. Other factors to consider when making the budget include insurance, gas, routine maintenance, etc.
• Typically, three negotiations occur when purchasing a vehicle – the cost of the car, the finance rate, and the trade-in value. Keep each transaction/negotiation separate from the other.
  • The Purchase Cost: Check multiple websites, including the manufacturer, to understand what the vehicle sells for in your area. You could save hundreds of dollars by driving outside of your immediate location and expanding your search area.
  • The Finance Rate: The biggest factor in obtaining a favorable interest rate is one's credit score. Higher credit scores will result in lower interest rates. Obtain pre-approval for an auto loan, determine the highest interest rate you might be charged, and then ask the dealer if they can offer a lower interest rate. If they can, you save money.
  • The Trade-In Value: While evaluating your trade-in, you must determine the vehicle's condition. Most used vehicles fall into the "good" or "fair" category, which is the most common. To determine the value, check various websites to learn the average trade-in value. *Remember, selling a vehicle independently on your own may increase the value amount you may receive for the vehicle. However, there are safety aspects to consider, proper paperwork, bill of sale, etc. Trading the vehicle can often be easier and hassle free.

The Your Driving Costs online calculator provides an interactive and personalized breakdown for car shoppers that uses the same methodology as AAA's annual analysis of new car ownership. Consumers can view comprehensive cost analyses of a specific vehicle by category to determine if ownership costs best align with their budget. Data is available for new and used vehicles (five model years back), and consumers may customize the results based on location and other personal driving tendencies.

ADDITIONAL AAA RESOURCES

• AAA Car Guide: Annual guide of the latest automotive technology. Use it to research vehicles that best suit consumer's needs.

• AAA's Car Buying Program: Resource for consumers to use while car shopping and buying.

• Used EV Buyers Guide: Resource and educational guide for consumers to use while electric vehicle shopping and buying.

• Repair Cost Calculator: Estimate repair costs to include a breakdown for parts, labor and the member discount available at all AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.

METHODOLOGY
AAA uses a proprietary methodology to calculate the costs of owning and operating a new car in the United States. Data is gathered from various sources, including Vincentric LLC, and incorporates standardized criteria to estimate the costs of using a new vehicle for personal transportation over five years and 75,000 miles of ownership. The use of standardized criteria ensures that AAA estimates are consistent when comparing the driving costs of different vehicle types. Actual driving costs will vary based on driving habits, location, operating conditions and other factors.

AAA evaluated nine categories of vehicles – consisting of 45 models – to determine a new vehicle's average annual operating and ownership costs. AAA selects top-selling, mid-priced models and compares them across six categories: fuel, maintenance/repair/tire costs, insurance, license/registration/taxes, depreciation, and finance charges. The study assumes a five-year ownership period, with the vehicle being driven 15,000 miles/annually (or a total of 75,000 miles).

ABOUT AAA

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America's largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, and financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 63 million members across North America, including more than 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.

As students across Nebraska and Iowa begin heading back to school over the coming weeks, AAA urges motorists to wear seatbelts, slow down, stay alert in neighborhoods, and school zones. Also, to be especially vigilant for pedestrians during before- and after-school hours. Children are particularly vulnerable during the afternoon hours following their school day. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 64 percent of child pedestrians killed in traffic crashes occurred during the weekday (6 a.m. Monday to 6:00 p.m. Friday) in 2021 (NHTSA Traffic Safety Facts). The goal is to always look out for all pedestrians on Nebraska roadways everywhere.

"We are aware of the risk to children in and around school zones which is why AAA shares the School's Open-Drive Carefully message each year, to help curb unsafe driving behavior near schools," said Brian Ortner, Public Affairs Specialist, AAA-The Auto Club Group. "If motorists slow down and stay alert, they can save lives."

The AAA School's Open Drive Carefully awareness campaign was launched in 1946 in an effort to prevent school-related child pedestrian traffic crashes - helping kids to live fulfilling, injury-free lives.

AAA offers seven ways to keep kids safe this school year:

Slow down. Speed limits in school zones are reduced for a reason. A pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling 25 mph is nearly two-thirds less likely to be killed compared to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling just 10 mph faster. A difference between 25 mph and 35 mph can save a life.

Eliminate distractions. Children often cross the road unexpectedly and may emerge suddenly between two parked cars. Research shows that taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles your chances of crashing.

Reverse responsibly. Every vehicle has blind spots. Check for children on the sidewalk, driveway and around your vehicle before slowly backing up. Teach your children to never play in, under or around vehicles—even those that are parked.

Talk to your teen. Car crashes are one of the leading causes of death for teens in the United States, and more than one-quarter of fatal crashes involving teen drivers occur during the after-school hours of 3 to 7 p.m.

Come to a complete stop. Research shows that more than one-third of drivers roll through stop signs in school zones or neighborhoods. Always come to a complete stop, checking carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks before proceeding.

Watch for bicycles. Children on bicycles are often inexperienced, unsteady, and unpredictable. Slow down and allow at least three feet of passing distance between your vehicle and the bicycle. If your child rides a bicycle to school, require that they wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet on every ride.

Look for AAA School Safety Patrollers - Nationwide, more than 679,000 AAA School Safety Patrollers stand guard at over 35,000 schools. When you see one, a school zone is likely nearby.

"If parents and other drivers follow these simple rules when driving in and around school zones, countless children can avoid injury and death," continues Ortner. "It's up to us to help all drivers become more aware of the risks of driving around schools."

To read more about traffic and pedestrian safety visit Safety – AAA Exchange

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

for Independence Day Weekend

Residents can call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO for a safe ride

As AAA prepares to rescue more than 393,000 drivers nationwide with car trouble this Independence Day weekend, it will also provide a free service in effort to keep impaired drivers off the road. The Auto Club Group is activating its Tow to Go program in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.

This is the 25^th year The Auto Club Group has provided the Tow to Go program. When called upon, The Auto Club Group dispatches a tow truck to transport the driver and vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius for free. Since its inception, Tow to Go has removed more than 25,000 impaired drivers from the road.

• Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, June 30^th to 6 a.m. Wednesday, July 5^th.
• Free confidential rides available to AAA members and non-members.

"By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications," said Brian Ortner, AAA – The Auto Club Group. "However, we remind people to treat Tow to Go as a last resort. Instead, make advanced plans for a safe ride home."

TOW TO GO

TOW TO GO GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Friday, June 30^th to 6 a.m. Wednesday, July 5^th.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec, and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings, and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Nationally, travel figures are also expected to set new records. An estimated 50.7 million Americans are forecast to travel for the holiday weekend. That's nearly 2.1 million more travelers than last year's holiday and almost 1.8 million more than the previous high, set back in 2019.

"Independence Day weekend appears to be the continuation of what has already been a very strong summer travel season," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Although airfares and hotel rates are more expensive than last year, Americans are still eager to travel. So, expect to see congested roads, busy hotels, and long lines at airports and attractions."

Road Trips Remain the Preferred Mode of Transportation

Nearly 85% of all travelers will take a road trip. AAA predicts 43.2 million Americans will drive to their destinations. That's a little over 1 million more people on the road than last year. Regionally, more than 3.1 million are forecast to take a holiday road trip. That's 47,000 more than last year.

Gas Prices to Remain Lower than Last Year's Holiday

While it's still too early to know exactly what drivers will pay at the pump this Independence Day, it's likely to be well below what drivers paid during last year's holiday period. The average over the 4^th of July holiday (July 1 – 6, 2022) was $4.64 - $4.70 per gallon in Nebraska and $4.57 - $4.61 per gallon in Iowa. So far this summer, gas prices have been somewhat erratic, but the state average in Nebraska and Iowa, remained below $3.45 per gallon, thanks to the lower cost of oil.

419,000 more Americans will board a flight

A record-setting 4.17 million Americans will fly to their destinations this Independence Day weekend. That surpasses the previous July 4^th weekend air travel record of 3.91 million travelers, which was set in 2019. The share of air travelers in the overall holiday forecast this year is an impressive 8.2% - the highest percentage in nearly 20 years.

An estimated 147,000 are forecast to fly this year from the WNC. That's nearly 13,000 more than last year, but 3000 less than 2019.

Other modes of transportation are also on the rise this year. AAA expects 3.36 million people will travel by bus, cruise, or train over the long weekend, an increase of 24% over last year. This national figure is not expected to surpass 2019 levels. However, the projected 427,000 travelers is a new record in the region.

Friday, June 30 is expected to be the busiest day on the roads during the Independence Day holiday weekend, according to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights. The worst travel times vary by day but are generally in the afternoon and early evening.

Average travel times are estimated to be 30% longer than normal, particularly in major metro areas, near beaches and attractions. To avoid the heaviest congestion, INRIX recommends drivers leave in the morning or after 6 p.m.

Travel demand has steadily increased since 2020, and this summer is poised to be one for the record books. Here are some trends and tips from AAA Travel.

• Air travel is seeing the biggest spike in demand despite higher ticket prices. Passengers are paying 40% - 50% more for flights compared to last year, yet AAA data shows bookings remain strong. Many airlines are responding to surging demand by hiring more staff and taking smaller regional planes out of service and replacing them with larger ones to increase capacity. However, there are still challenges, including a shortage of air traffic controllers that has led to reduced service in and out of New York City area airports.
  • AAA Travel Tip: Apply for TSA Precheck to avoid long security lines at packed airports. You can enroll at participating AAA branches during TSA PreCheck® by IDEMIA pop-up events, which are posted HERE 45 days in advance.
• Hotel prices are up slightly over 2022, but not by much. While the number of domestic hotel bookings is about the same as last year, AAA data shows international hotel bookings are up 80% compared to 2022. International travel demand is booming and so are passport applications. The U.S. State Department says it's processing half a million applications a week. Routine service is averaging 10-13 weeks.
  • AAA Travel Tip: Need a passport fast? RushMyPassport provides expedited services and discounts for AAA members. This past May, they handled more than 1,100 applications from AAA members, compared to just 73 applications in May of last year.
• Car rental shortages seen during the pandemic have improved. Inventory has steadily increased since last year, with newer models and electric vehicles added to fleets. AAA data shows rental prices are down slightly from last year. Demand for international rental cars is up more than 80% compared to 2022.
  • AAA Travel Tip: Prepay for your rental car to be eligible for added savings and the confidence that the car of your choice will be waiting for you as planned. If you're planning to drive abroad, keep in mind some countries require International Driving Permits. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the State Department to issue IDPs. This year, AAA reports demand for IDPs is double what it was in 2022.
• Cruising is back to pre-pandemic numbers, with sold-out ships and advance bookings. Prices are about the same as 2022, with certain cruises a bit higher this year due to demand. Alaska cruises are particularly popular this time of year. AAA booking data also shows Caribbean cruises and European river cruises are top vacations in 2023.
  • AAA Travel Tip: Protect your investment with travel insurance. AAA data shows demand for travel insurance is up more than 100% over last year, as more travelers now see the need to prepare for the unexpected.

Travel Forecast

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from S&P Global Market Intelligence's proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and S&P Global Market Intelligence have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET's TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor^SM. The PERFORMANCE/Monitor^SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, forecast U.S. travel behavior and position brands—all after the trips have been taken.

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 15, 2023.

* Independence Day Holiday Travel Period

For purposes of this forecast, the Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Friday, June 30 to Tuesday, July 4. When the Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday, it is considered to be a six-day holiday period, when it falls on any other day of the week the holiday period is a five-day window.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About S&P Global
S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses and individuals with the right data, expertise and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world's leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world's leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today. For more information, visit?www.spglobal.com.

About DKSA

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry's most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.

About INRIX??

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it's keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.

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Services available from opening ceremonies through final game

With thousands visiting Omaha for the 2023 College World Series, some fans in attendance at Charles Schwab Field may find themselves in need of assistance with their automobile. AAA is pleased to provide courtesy roadside assistance to anyone in need of a jumpstart, unlock, tire change, fuel delivery (up to two gallons) or a tow (within five miles), from noon to 10 p.m. each day, from June 15 through the final game June 25/26. The number of calls may impact response time. Proof of vehicle ownership may be required for some services. Available to members and non-members.

CWS attendees in need should contact AAA at (402) 516-1111 or a Law Enforcement officer stationed at Charles Schwab Field.

"AAA is pleased to provide this service to CWS fans in need," stated Nick Buhrman, Director of Automotive Services for AAA-The Auto Club Group. "Providing this valuable assistance is not only helping motorists get safely back on the road, it's just one more way we can demonstrate genuine Nebraska hospitality to those visiting our great state."

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

The study tested the Ford F-150 Lightning, a popular electric pickup truck, and found that its range dropped by 24.5% (from 278 miles to 210) when loaded with 1,400 pounds of sandbags - 110 pounds shy of its maximum capacity. For context, 1,400 pounds is the same as hauling around 70 bags of mulch or 20 bags of concrete mix.

"This study is important for broadening our understanding of the limitations of electric vehicles," said Brian Ortner, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Range anxiety remains a top reason consumers are hesitant to switch from gasoline-powered vehicles to EVs. While this study may heighten concerns, it's worth remembering that excess weight reduces fuel economy in gas-powered vehicles too."

"Our testing revealed a significant range reduction, but it's important to note that the Lightning was loaded to near its maximum capacity," said Greg Brannon, director of AAA Automotive Engineering. "Most buyers will likely use their Lightning with a lighter load, resulting in a much smaller range reduction."

Refer to the full report for methodology details, including specific testing equipment and test track characteristics.

Physics and Driving Behavior Play a Role

Extra weight requires more energy to move. The type of driving also plays a role. Highway driving, which typically involves higher speeds and less regenerative braking, will further reduce range. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, which perform more efficiently at highway speeds, EVs thrive in urban driving conditions due to regenerative braking from more frequent stops. Regenerative brakes capture the energy from braking and convert it into the electrical power that charges the vehicle's high-voltage battery. This electricity can then be stored in the car's battery or power other electrical components.

In the case of battery electric pickups used as work vehicles, permanent loads (such as equipment racks, toolboxes, and equipment trays built into the vehicle) will reduce the range at all times, even without additional cargo.

EVs Still a Viable Option for Many Drivers

"For buyers concerned about range, it's essential to consider the driving they will be doing and choose the right EV for their needs," said Ortner. "AAA understands that popularity and interest in electric vehicles is growing. That's why AAA developed a wide range of educational material. We've also expanded roadside services in select regions to assist EV owners who run out of charge."

AAA Provides Mobile EV Charging in 15 Cities

AAA launched a pilot program last year that offers roadside charging for EVs in 15 metro areas. The program utilizes mobile charging trucks to provide members with an additional 10 - 20 miles of range - enough to get them home or to the nearest charging station, at no additional charge.

AAA Resources for Electric Vehicle Owners

• Used EV Buyer's Guide - helps consumers buy an EV with confidence
• TripTik Travel Planner provides public charging information along any route
• AAA TourBook® Guides include which hotels offer public charging for guests
• Cashback rewards for public EV charging on AAA-branded credit cards (visit a participating AAA location to learn more)
• Your Driving Cost Online Calculator helps consumers determine important comparison costs before purchase. Select the desired state, annual mileage, and driving ratio representing your typical driving habits, and vehicle year/make/model & trim.
• AAA Car Guide provides consumers with reviews and ratings of select vehicles with the latest automotive technology, many of which are EVs.
• AAA.com/Insurance - If you are thinking about trading out an old vehicle, or adding a brand new one, make sure you talk to an insurance agent to discuss updates to your policy, coverage, and get rate estimates.

To help educate the public, AAA conducts ongoing research on EVs, including consumer sentiment surveys, testing to determine factors impacting electric vehicle range, the true cost of electric vehicle ownership, and a survey on consumers' experience with going electric. To see the full body of research, visit AAA Newsroom.

OMAHA, NE, (May 30, 2023) — Today, the statewide coalition of organizations that assembled earlier in the year continues its strong opposition to a legislative proposal that would substantially weaken Nebraska's motorcycle helmet law, and therefore increase the number of deaths and traumatic injuries on the state's highways.

LB 91 has been adopted as an amendment to LB 138 in the Nebraska Legislature. As an amendment to LB 138 this new placement of LB 91 would allow motorcyclists over the age of 21 to ride without a helmet, whereas current law requires all riders to wear helmets. A concern in addition to that of riders safety is the legal impact of adding state-specific changes to a bill that is updating federal regulations of a different topic of transportation.

Motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent and lower the risk of death by 42 percent. In 2020, states without universal helmet laws saw a 57 percent death rate among motorcyclists who were not wearing helmets, compared to 11 percent in states with universal helmet laws, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. From the Government Accountability Office, "laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets are the only strategy proven to be effective in reducing motorcyclist fatalities." After Michigan weakened its all-rider helmet law in 2012, the percentage of non-helmeted crash scene fatalities quadrupled, and the number of motorcyclist trauma patients hospitalized with a head injury rose 14%.

Missouri elected to remove their helmet law in 2020. Preliminary data over the last three years shows an increase in un-helmeted rider fatalities. An increase of nearly 800% compared to the same time frame before the helmet law repeal. (See the attached from Missouri Department of Transportation.)

Multiple studies of states that have repealed their motorcycle helmet law show an increase in rider deaths, serious and disabling brain injuries and medical costs, which are usually borne by taxpayers and the state. Annually, motorcycle crashes cost $13 billion in economic impact and $66 billion in societal harm, as measured by comprehensive costs based on 2010 data. When adjusted only for inflation, these amounts increase to $17 billion and $86 billion, respectively. Serious injuries and fatalities accounted for 87 percent of total comprehensive costs of motorcycle crashes, compared to 57 percent of the total comprehensive costs of all motor vehicle crashes. The repeal of all-rider motorcycle helmet laws has led to increased economic costs, including insurance premiums, in many states.

According to a recent survey conducted by AAA, 81% of Nebraskans support maintaining the state's current law. The current law has worked well in keeping motorcyclists safe on our roadways. We cannot afford to weaken it. The number of organizations and individuals who testified during the Transportation and Telecommunications hearing back in January outweighed those who are in favor of the repeal.

The public roads and highways are the responsibility of everyone who uses them. All we are asking is that everyone use them safely.

We encourage you to contact your senator in addition to Speaker John Arch, Senator Ben Hansen and Senator Carolyn Bosn and let them know that a choice in this matter is a choice of saving lives, preventing injuries and being safe on our roads. AAA has created an easy way for residents to reach their senator by utilizing this action alert.

https://www.votervoice.net/AAA/Campaigns/65924/Respond

AAA – The Auto Club Group

Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety

NE Chapter - American Physical Therapy Association

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska

Kids and Car Safety

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals

National Safety Council-Nebraska Chapter

National Transportation Safety Board

Nebraska Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association

Nebraska Hospital Association

Nebraska Medical Association

Nebraska Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

Nebraska Safety Council

SAFE ROADS

Society for the Advancement of Violence and Injury Research

SMARTER

Over 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and a dangerous time of year for young drivers. Nationwide, more than 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers occur during what's called the "100 Deadliest Days" – a period that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

"Summer is historically a dangerous time for teen drivers," said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA Nebraska. "Now that school is out, teens will spend more time on the road, often driving with friends at odd hours of the day and night. Because of their inexperience, teens are more susceptible to dangerous driving behaviors – like speeding, driving distracted, and not wearing a safety belt. AAA urges parents to model safe driving behavior and reinforce safe driving habits with their teen drivers to help keep them safe this summer."

Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for teens ages 16-19. For every mile driven, new teen drivers (ages 16 – 17) are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adults.

National Teen Driver Statistics:

• An average of 2,108 teens are involved in deadly crashes, every year.
  • 660 (31%) of those occur during the 100 Deadliest Days.
• These crashes result in an average of 2,341 deaths per year.
  • 732 of those fatalities occur during the 100 Deadliest Days.

In Nebraska:

• On average,19 teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes, each year.
  • 6 (31%) of those occur during the 100 Deadliest Days.
• These crashes result in an average of 21 deaths per year.
  • 7 (33%) of those fatalities occur during the 100 Deadliest Days.

Common Risk Factors for Teen Drivers

Understanding the risks and knowing the facts will prepare both you and your teen for the road ahead:

• Distracted driving. Distraction plays a role in nearly six out of ten teen crashes. Electronics like cell phones and in-vehicle infotainment systems are considered the second-biggest distraction to teen drivers. The biggest distractions are teen passengers.
• Driving with teen passengers. Research shows that the risk of a fatal crash increases in direct relation to the number of teenagers in a car (NHTSA). Having other passengers in the car can contribute to peer pressure and the impulse to engage in dangerous habits like speeding and aggressive driving.
• Speeding. Speeding is a factor in nearly 30 percent of fatal crashes involving teen drivers.
• Not wearing a safety belt. Teens who buckle up significantly reduce their risk of dying or being seriously injured in a crash.

AAA's Advice for Parents

"The single most important thing parents can do to help their teens become safe drivers is to be involved in their 'learning to drive' process," said Rachel Wilson, Director of Driver Education Programs, AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Spend time coaching your teen while they're behind the wheel and have a serious discussion about safety. While parents can be a great teacher, it also helps to seek out professional training courses, like those provided by AAA."

• Lead by example. Minimize risky behavior when you drive. Don't drive aggressively, avoid distractions, and always wear your seatbelt. Your driving skills and judgement behind the wheel shape your child's view of safe driving habits, even before they're old enough to drive. Make safe driving a priority in your own life.
• Conduct at least 50 hours of supervised practice driving. Let your teen drive in a variety of conditions including inclement weather, busy interstates, and at night. This will help them become a more confident driver in imperfect situations.
• Teach defensive driving skills. Help your teen anticipate potential risks by constantly scanning the road for hazards. Then share advice for how to safely avoid them.
• Establish a parent-teen driving agreement which sets family rules like when the teen can drive, where they can go and with who. Then clearly outline the consequences for breaking the rules and rewards for driving safe.

Online Driving Course

AAA's How to Drive Online provides a solid foundation of the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce a teen's risk behind the wheel. This supplemental program is an online, 25-hour course that features:

• Convenient, self-paced delivery
• Research-based curriculum
• Videos, simulations, and interactive exercises to enhance content retention
• Optional virtual parent session to help educate parents on the learning to drive process

Behind the Wheel Driving Courses

The AAA Approved Driving School Network helps identify the best driver training resources in your local community. These schools have passed AAA's stringent standards and offer quality curriculum as well as the best value for students.

To learn more, email DriverTraining2@acg.aaa.com or call (888) 222-7108.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

for Memorial Day Weekend

Call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO for a safe ride

Omaha, NE, (May 24, 2023) — As AAA prepares to rescue more than 483,000 drivers nationwide with car trouble this Memorial Day weekend, it will also provide a free service in effort to keep impaired drivers off the road. The Auto Club Group is activating its Tow to Go program in Nebraska, Iowa and other select states (see below), offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.

This is the 25^th year The Auto Club Group has provided the Tow to Go program. When called upon, The Auto Club Group dispatches a tow truck to transport the driver and vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius for free. Since its inception, Tow to Go has removed more than 25,000 impaired drivers from the road.

• Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Friday, May 26^th to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30^th.
• Free confidential rides available to AAA members and non-members.

"By providing this program, AAA gives drivers no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or impairing medications," said Brian Ortner, AAA – The Auto Club Group. "However, we remind people to treat Tow to Go as a last resort. Instead, make advanced plans for a safe ride home, because you do not want to be remembered on Memorial Day as the person who made the fatal mistake of driving impaired."

TOW TO GO

TOW TO GO GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Friday, May 26^th to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30^th.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec, and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings, and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

WNC Regional travel numbers are set to near pre-pandemic record highs in both the auto and air travel categories. An estimated 3 million will drive, which is 157,000 more than last year but 102,000 less than 2019. Meanwhile, 136,000 are forecast to fly, which is 28,000 more passengers than last year's holiday but 16,000 less than pre-pandemic numbers.

"Memorial Day weekend is the kickoff to what promises to be a very busy summer travel season," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Despite various inflationary pressures, consumer spending is strong, and Americans still want to travel. Because of that, we've seen demand come roaring back, just shy of pre-pandemic levels in for Nebraska and the surrounding areas."

Overall National Travel Figures are Third Highest for the Holiday

Although state holiday travel figures are poised to reach record highs, national travel numbers are still slightly behind pre-pandemic levels. Click here to read the full report.

Total Travelers – AAA projects 42.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend*. That's 2.7 million (+7%) more travelers than last year, but fewer people than what was reported in 2019 (42.8 million) and 2005 (44 million).

Air Travel – Despite higher ticket prices, demand for flights is soaring. AAA predicts the strongest air travel numbers since 2005. Nearly 3.4 million travelers are expected to fly for the holiday weekend. That's 33,700 (11%) more passengers than last year, and 170,000 (5.4%) more than in 2019.

Airfares – Travelers are paying more for Memorial Day trips this year, in large part due to the rising cost of airline tickets. AAA booking data shows a 40% increase in airfares to this year's Top Destinations.

Auto Travel – Memorial Day road trips are up 6% from last year. An estimated 37.1 million Americans will drive to their destinations. That's 2 million more than last year, but 500,000 fewer than 2019 numbers. Driving remains the preferred mode of transportation for 88% of holiday travelers.

Gas Prices – Gas prices have moved lower in recent weeks, yet It's too early to know if that downward trend will continue in the lead-up to the summer kick-off.
(May 15, 2023, prices – Nebraska $3.30 per gallon and Iowa $3.33 per gallon on average)

However, it's unlikely that prices will come anywhere near the state average that holiday travelers paid last year of $4.19 per gallon in Nebraska and $4.22 in Iowa.

*Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period

For purposes of this forecast, the Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Thursday, May 25 to Monday, May 29. The five-day holiday length is consistent with previous holiday periods.

Best/Worst Times to Travel and Peak Congestion by Metro

Friday, May 26 will be the busiest day on the roads, according to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights. The best times to travel by car, during the holiday weekend, will be in the morning or evening after 6 p.m. The lightest traffic days will be Saturday and Sunday.

To avoid congestion, INRIX suggests driving during non-peak hours or using alternative routes.

Top Destinations

AAA is seeing increased demand for iconic cities, international vacation packages, and cruises with included amenities that provide added value for the price.

• Tourist hotspots like Orlando, New York City, and Las Vegas are top domestic destinations, according to AAA booking data for the Memorial Day weekend.
• Other popular U.S. cities this Memorial Day include Denver, Boston, Anaheim, and Canton, Ohio – home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
• Domestic cruise bookings have increased 50% from last year. Cruise port cities in Florida and Alaska, as well as Seattle, are high on the list. View AAA's 14 Insider Cruise Tips for your First Voyage.

International Travel is Hot

International travel is surging with bookings 250% higher this holiday weekend compared to 2022. European cities are the most popular, including Rome, Paris, Dublin, London, Barcelona, and Athens. International car rentals are up more than 80% over 2022. AAA reports strong sales for International Driving Permits this year, almost double what they were last year.

Strong travel demand and pandemic-related backlogs have caused passport processing delays, resulting in an unprecedented number of applications for expedited passport and visa services with RushMyPassport. AAA members get exclusive rates when using passport courier service.

Holiday Forecast Methodology

Travel Forecast

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from S&P Global Market Intelligence's proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and S&P Global Market Intelligence have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET's TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor^SM. The PERFORMANCE/Monitor^SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior —all after the trips have been taken.

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of April 17, 2023.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About S&P Global

S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses and individuals with the right data, expertise and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world's leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world's leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com.

About DKSA

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry's most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.

About INRIX

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it's keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.

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"Travel demand has come roaring back this summer and we're already seeing large crowds at popular domestic and international travel destinations," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "The recent decision to lift all international travel restrictions will only add to demand. So, we encourage travelers to do their research and work with a travel expert. They can help you find the best value on a relaxing vacation."

More than Half of Nebraskans Plan to Take a Summer Vacation

According to a new AAA travel survey, 77% of Nebraskans will travel this year. More than half (57%) of them will take a summer vacation. However, less than a fifth (19%) of summer travelers have finalized their plans.

The most popular vacations they're planning are:

• 35% – National State Park
• 34% – City/Major Metro Destination
• 29% – Lake Destination
• 20% – Theme Park
• 18% Beach Destination

Top Summer Traveler Stats and AAA Travel Tips

90% plan to take a road trip. Leave early. Expect congestion near beaches and attractions, particularly on weekends and holidays. Traditionally, gas prices peak in the spring and fluctuate through the summer. Use the AAA mobile app to compare prices.

19% will not get a vehicle inspection before their road trip. AAA urges drivers to ensure their vehicle is road trip ready. You can find a trusted local mechanic by visiting AAA.com/AutoRepair.

29% plan to take a commercial flight. To reduce the likelihood of flight delays or cancellations, book a non-stop flight that leaves early in the morning. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early. Download the airline's mobile app, to receive updates about your flight status. Consider travel insurance, which provides coverage options for flight cancellations and delays (see below for more).

8% plan to take a cruise. Summertime sailings are filling up fast. In many cases, travelers are looking at 2024 departures to find the itinerary they want. Travelers who book a cruise with a AAA travel advisor may be eligible for discounts and benefits like early boarding, specialty dining upgrades, and onboard credits. Travel advisors can also unlock additional savings on your airfare when bundling with your cruise.

26% plan to rent a car. Rental car availability has improved, yet inventory is likely to be tight at airports, due to strong demand. Rates are often more expensive the closer you get to your desired rental date, so book early for the best combination of availability and price. AAA members can also receive up to 20% off base rates at Hertz car rental locations.

International travel bookings are up more than 200% compared to 2022. Ensure your passport is up to date. Strong demand and pandemic-related backlogs have led to passport processing delays. Wait times have increased from 8-11 weeks to 10-13 weeks. AAA members get exclusive rates on expediting services for U.S. passports and global travel visas with RushMyPassport.

Travel insurance is a must! There are a variety of reasons travelers use it: medical emergencies, flight cancellations, severe weather, or unexpected life events.

• Cancel for any reason. These policies enable travelers to cancel their trip for covered reasons allowing the policyholder to recoup non-refundable deposits.
• Flight cancellations. If your flight is cancelled, passengers can receive compensation for covered out-of-pocket expenses.
• Flight delays. Policyholders could be reimbursed for flight delays of as little as three hours.
• Medical coverage. International travelers can get policies that provide medical coverage, since their health benefits in America do not generally extend outside the United States.

Plan ahead! Whether it's mapping out gas stations or electric vehicle charging stations along your route and at your destination, or planning which attractions and activities you want to visit when you arrive, AAA offers TripTik and Trip Canvas, two free travel tools to keep you organized and prepared.

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Nebraska from April 20 – 27, 2023. A total of 400 residents completed the survey. Survey results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Nebraska.

"Travel is in full swing and bookings are incredibly strong, so it pays to plan ahead," says Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA-The Auto Club Group. "And if you plan to travel overseas, we suggest using a travel adviser like the ones at AAA. We partner with vetted travel providers who have staff in-destination who can adjust plans as needed."

Europe and Canada are the most popular international destinations, per AAA's data. London tops the list, with a nearly 350% increase over last year. Rome, Paris, Dublin, and Barcelona are other European hot spots. Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary are the most popular Canadian destinations.

"River cruises are a popular way to visit multiple international destinations in one trip," Haas continued. "I just returned from an international river cruise and enjoyed the ease of unpacking once and gliding between destinations."

10 Ways to Prepare for International Travel

1. PRIORITIZE YOUR PASSPORT

You can't travel internationally without a passport. If you don't have one, apply ASAP! The U.S. Department of State issues passports, and routine service normally takes 8 to 11 weeks. But pandemic-related application backlogs coupled with a surge in travel demand are leading to longer wait times, anywhere from 10 to 13 weeks. Even some expedited services are seeing delays of about 7 to 9 weeks. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date. Some countries require passports be valid for six months beyond your departure date from the United States. Your destination might also require a travel visa. To give you peace of mind, work with a travel advisor who can ensure you're not missing any steps. AAA members get exclusive rates on expediting services for U.S. passports and global travel visas with RushMyPassport.

2. DON'T KNOW WHERE TO VISIT? START HERE

Choosing an international destination can seem daunting. One way to get inspired is by browsing trending destinations or curated trips on Trip Canvas, AAA's free online travel tool for dreaming, planning, and booking trips. Or turn to AAA travel advisors in person, online, or by phone to brainstorm ideas and create itineraries.

3. FOLLOW THE LEADER

Single/solo travelers – or people who haven't been abroad in years – greatly benefit from guided tours, where an expert is the one leading the way. Guided tours are a great way to explore the world without the stress of planning daily itineraries. According to AAA Member Choice Vacations, the most popular tours for new travelers are London & Paris, British Landscapes, and Ireland.

4. BEEN THERE, DONE THAT? TRY THIS

For travelers who've already checked Europe off their list and are craving something different, trips focused on adventure and local culture are rising in popularity. Club Adventures by AAA, which focuses on small group tours, says Antarctica, Costa Rica, Iceland, Peru, Morocco, and Vietnam are destinations in high demand. They say more travelers are seeking authenticity and connection on their international trips. "Today's travelers are reshaping what it means to connect with a destination. They are seeking authenticity and understanding, they long to see the world through a local lens," said Allison Villasenor, Club Adventures Managing Director.

5. UNPACK ONCE, SEE THE WORLD

Travelers wanting to experience multiple destinations without staying at multiple hotels are booking cruises. This year, cruising is in high demand. AAA booking data shows cruises departing from international destinations are up 30% compared to 2022. Cruises sailing in Nothern Europe, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean are among the most popular. European river cruises and ships sailing in the Persian Gulf and Southeast Asia are also high on the list.

6. RENTING A CAR? YOU'LL NEED THIS

Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally. An IDP is a valid form of identification that includes your name, photo, and driver information. Even if a country doesn't require an IDP, your rental car company might. An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver's license of the traveler and may not be issued more than six months before the desired effective date. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue an IDP.

7. PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

Travel insurance is always a good idea but even more so if you're traveling internationally. Protecting your trip is highly recommended in case of trip delay, expenses incurred from missed flights, lost luggage, or medical expenses due to illness or injury. The best way to determine what type of coverage you need is by reaching out to a trusted travel advisor, like a AAA Travel Agent. That person will help you choose the right plan to gain a clear understanding as to which policy (your personal health coverage or your travel insurance company's coverage) is primary or secondary. It's important to know how much coverage the policy offers and what is and is not covered.

8. WAYS TO SAVE

One of the best ways to save money on international travel is to be flexible with your dates. Traveling during the off-season can mean better deals, fewer crowds and a more enjoyable experience overall. For example, going to Europe in October or February can save you money on airfare and lodging. Off-season travel also helps the destination itself by reducing over-crowding, which strains local communities and infrastructure.

Another way to spend less is flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper, as many airlines add weekend surcharges. When booking a hotel, try to avoid properties in the city center, which tend to be pricier. Also, find out how much the hotel charges in resort fees, parking, and internet — all of that adds up!

9. ENROLL IN STEP

Download the State Department's Smart Traveler app for detailed information regarding countries around the world and up-to-date travel advisories. While you're on the app or on the State Department website, enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to notify the State Department of your trip, so they can alert you of any unrest or advisories at your destination.

10. TAKE IT FROM THE PROS

AAA Diamonds Inspectors know a thing or two about travel. They log thousands of miles every year, inspecting hotels and restaurants, verifying the 4Cs of AAA Diamonds: Cleanliness, Comfort, Cuisine, and Consistency. Here are some pro tips from AAA Inspectors on international travel.

"Notify your credit card company of your trip and check foreign transaction fees. Use ATMs instead of exchange houses and always choose local currency if given the choice with credit card transactions."

"Take a photo or make a copy of your passport and keep that with you. Secure your physical passport in the hotel safe while you're sightseeing."

"If traveling with a significant other or close friend, split your clothes into two bags, so if one suitcase is delayed or lost, you both have clothing. If traveling alone, put a few clothing items in your carry-on."

"Put a large paper with your name, address, and contact information inside the front pocket of your checked suitcase in case your luggage tag is removed or falls off. This will give you a better chance of having your bag returned to you."

"If you're checking a suitcase and carrying on a roller bag, put the heaviest items in your carry-on. That way, you avoid paying an overweight fee on your suitcase, and if the airline forces you to check your carry-on anyway because there's no overhead bin space, you won't have to pay a checked bag fee either."

"Compression socks for the flight!"

"Make sure you know how you are going to get to the hotel from the airport once you arrive, and if possible, arrange your transportation ahead of time."

"Divide your cash into separate purses or pockets. In the unlikely event you are robbed, all your money won't be taken."

"To help with jet lag: Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the flight. If it's daylight when you arrive, stay outside as much as possible to get natural light exposure. Avoid naps and try to stay awake until a normal sleeping hour at your destination."

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

2022 was notable for soaring gas prices, with the national average for a gallon of gas hitting a record $5.01 in June. In Nebraska, the state average reached a new record high of $4.79. Consumers responded by purchasing more than 760,000 EVs, a 65% increase from 2021. Of the 71 vehicles reviewed for the 2023 AAA Car Guide, 19 are pure electric.

"AAA's latest research is here to help consumers navigate the evolving automotive marketplace by ranking and rating the newest vehicles – including EVs," said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. "EV sales gain more traction each year, but we know that consumers still have a lot of questions about them, such as battery life and ease of charging. AAA's Car Guide can help answer some of these questions and eliminate some of the car buying guesswork."

AAA Releases its 2023 Car Guide

The AAA Car Guide is an easy-to-understand resources that takes some of the stress and guesswork out of car shopping by providing the vital information consumers need to make the right choice.

The 2023 AAA Car Guide includes comprehensive reviews of each vehicle based on 13 criteria, including:

• Number of ADAS safety features
• Fuel efficiency
• Emissions
• Braking and handling
• Ride quality
• Acceleration

The 2022 BMW iX xDrive50 earned the overall top score for the 2023 edition of the AAA Car Guide. All but one of the category winners for 2023 is electric - the gasoline-powered Kia Carnival SX took the minivan category. Meanwhile, tiny Rivian Automotive placed two models in the top five – the R1T Adventure pickup (Pickup Truck category winner) and the R1S Launch Edition SUV.

These vehicles are tested, scored, and placed in one of six vehicle type categories by the Automotive Research Center (ARC) of the Automobile Club of Southern California, a member of the AAA federation of motor clubs. Additionally, there are three categories based on price.

Each of the 2023 AAA Car Guide winners has numerous ADAS safety features and achieves high fuel efficiency. The highest scoring ranked by category are:

Winners, detailed evaluation criteria, vehicle reviews, and an in-depth analysis of the ADAS technology can be found at aaa.com/carguide. AAA also provides consumers with other resources like the Your Driving Costs calculator and Used EV Car Buyer's Guide to help with car buying decisions.

For those in the market for newer used vehicles, the online AAA Car Guide website also contains links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2021.

The AAA Car Guide also contains detailed information about AAA's recent research on current automotive technologies such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and headlight effectiveness.

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• Tow to Go is active from 6 p.m. Thursday, March 16^th to 6 a.m. Monday, March 20^th.
• Free confidential rides available to AAA members, and non-members.
  

Please remember to always chose a designated driver before celebrating. AAA – The Auto Club Group is always here in case you did not plan accordingly because safety is at the heart of all we do.

How does it work? When someone calls Tow to Go, (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 AAA dispatches a tow truck to transport the would-be impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. The service is free for anyone, yet AAA asks that it be treated as a last resort.

As St. Patrick's Day approaches this month, it's imperative that drivers take steps to stay off the road if they are impaired. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest holidays on U.S. roadways. In 2020, more than 11,000 people died in drunk-driving crashes. Those deaths could have been avoided if the impaired drivers found a safe ride home instead of driving drunk. (NHTSA)

"AAA's Tow to Go program has helped improve road safety for a quarter century," said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group (Nebraska). "We're proud to be that last line of defense, keeping people from driving impaired. We also remain committed to educating the public that it's important to find a safe ride before drinking alcohol or taking drugs. This is critical so motorists are not in the position of having to decide if they're sober enough to drive."

TOW TO GO

TOW TO GO GUIDELINES

• Provided from 6 p.m. Thursday, March 16^th to 6 a.m. Monday, March 20^th.
• Free and available to AAA members and non-members.
• Confidential local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius.
• Appointments cannot be scheduled in advance to use Tow to Go. It is designed as a safety net for those that did not plan ahead. Always choose a designated driver before celebrating.
• In some situations, AAA may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired individual a safe ride home.
• Tow to Go may not be available in rural areas or during severe weather conditions.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec, and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings, and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

AAA is also citing a big jump in travel during spring break. According to the report, 23% of Nebraskans are planning a spring break vacation. That's up from 16% last year.

"AAA expects one of the busiest spring break travel seasons in years," said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Previous spring travel seasons were affected by COVID-19. However, Americans are largely more confident about traveling again, and AAA has seen very strong bookings for beach destinations, cruises, and attractions."

Beach and city vacations are popular among Spring Breakers, according to AAA's survey. Florida is the top domestic destination with its beaches, theme parks, and cruise ports. Of those surveyed in Nebraska, 29% say they will travel to a major city/metropolitan area, while 24% say they will hit the beach.

Hawaii is another Spring Break favorite, with six unique islands and stunning scenery. AAA tour partner Pleasant Holidays says bookings for Hawaiian hotels and cruises are popular this year, as many travelers are opting for warm weather beach destinations.

Cruising is making a big splash this year. Ships leaving from Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa – heading to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America – top the list of AAA cruise bookings for Spring Break. Cruises sailing to Alaska, Canada, Northern Europe, and the Persian Gulf have also seen a spike in popularity.

International Travel Surges

AAA travel bookings show a 30% spike in international Spring Break bookings compared to last year. Travelers looking for warm weather are flocking to the Caribbean and Mexico or sailing to tropical destinations while enjoying the amenities of a cruise vacation. Additionally, Americans are taking advantage of the strong U.S. dollar and the exchange rate in Europe.

Top Spring Break Destinations

USA Hot Spots

• Florida
• Hawaii
• Las Vegas
• New York City
• San Francisco
• New Orleans

Mexican Getaways

• Cancun and Riviera Maya
• Mexico City

Caribbean Vacations

• Nassau, Bahamas
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Montego Bay, Jamaica
• San Juan, Puerto Rico

European Escapes

• Paris, France
• London, England
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Rome, Italy
• Barcelona, Spain

Unique Cruises

• Bahrain
• Papua New Guinea
• Danube River

AAA Inspector Pro Tips: Spring Break

AAA Diamonds Inspectors know a thing or two about travel. They log thousands of miles every year, inspecting hotels and restaurants, verifying the 4Cs of AAA Diamonds: Cleanliness, Comfort, Cuisine, and Consistency.

Here are first-person pro tips from AAA Inspectors on Spring Break travel:

"My family and I always spend a little extra time before we travel, researching excursions or day trips at our destination. If we're going skiing, we look for snow mobile tours or local hot springs. For beach trips, we research snorkeling excursions, sightseeing tours, or dinner cruises."

"Research local events at your vacation destination. There might be a festival, concert, or other fun activity to experience!"

"I never book a non-refundable rate because those few dollars saved are lost if changes or cancellations must be made."

"Ask for a room away from elevators (where people can congregate), at the end of the corridors (for less traffic), and on a top floor (to avoid noise from people above you)."

Last-Minute Spring Break Ideas

Fifteen percent of Nebraskans say they haven't decided yet if they will travel for Spring Break, according to AAA's survey. It's not too late to make plans, but travelers may need to think outside the box. AAA recommends cities in colder climates where hotel rates are lower this time of year. If traveling with kids, look for hotels with indoor swimming pools. Research destinations that are within driving distance and offer free museums or outdoor attractions. AAA travel agents can help brainstorm other ideas and AAA members enjoy discounts on hotels, car rentals, and attractions.

Plan Ahead for Summer

The demand in Spring Break vacations signals a busy summer travel season. AAA travel agents say more people are booking trips farther in advance. AAA recommends making plans for summer sooner rather than later to avoid higher airline ticket prices and hotel rates. For inspiration, ideas, and itineraries, AAA offers a free online travel tool: Trip Canvas, where travelers can dream, research, and book.

Travel Insurance is a 'Must Have' This Year

Severe weather spoiled many spring breakers' travel plans last year, by causing widespread flight delays and cancellations. Because of that, 39% of Nebraskans are likely to purchase travel insurance. AAA encourages anyone traveling this year to consider travel insurance, which can provide compensation for expenses associated with flight delays and cancellations. There are also options that provide a refund if you must cancel your trip.

Survey Methodology

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Nebraska from January 27 – February 2, 2023. A total of 400 residents completed the survey. Survey results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Nebraska.

About AAA – The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 62 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA's mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

"Prom and Graduation season is a rite-of-passage for teens, many of whom look forward to celebrating with friends, sometimes, where drugs or alcohol may be involved," said Brian Ortner, spokesman, AAA Nebraska. "This becomes particularly dangerous when the party spills out onto the road. Unfortunately, that combination of impaired and inexperienced drivers often leads to a tragic end. That's why we're offering AAA PROMise, which is a multi-tiered approach at enhancing the safety of teen drivers and everyone else on the roads."

Here's how the AAA PROMise program works:

The teen signs the pledge banner and makes the following promise before celebrating Prom and Graduation:

• I promise not to drive impaired or distracted.
• I promise not to let my friends drive impaired or distracted.
• I promise my parents I will get home safely or call them for help.

By making the AAA PROMise, the teen agrees to openly communicate with his or her parent/guardian regarding a plan for getting home safely on special nights such as Prom and Graduation.

Parents also have an important role to play by making their children feel safe about calling them for help. Parents can PROMise that they will always pick up their teen regardless of the time or location.

How Schools can Participate:

Public and private schools* can participate in this lifesaving program for free by registering at AAA.com/Promise. They will receive a toolkit which includes:

• Fact Sheets/Resources – Overview of the AAA PROMise program and useful information to make it a success.
• Pledge Banner – used to gather each student's signature as a commitment to not drive impaired.
• Drawstring Bags, a AAAPROMise keepsake, and more.

Last year, more than 300 schools participated in the program. The deadline to order is May 31^st, 2023.

*Program is not offered within Hennepin County, MN.

Lifechanging Consequences

Driving impaired can carry lifechanging consequences. Teens could lose their academic eligibility, driver's license, even their life or that of their friends. According to the CDC, Teens are more likely than anyone else to be killed in an alcohol-related crash (even though the minimum legal drinking age in every state is 21). In 2020, 19 percent of 15- to 18-year-old drivers involved in fatal crashes had been drinking.

According to a 2022 AAA teen survey, 30% of high school teens report it's likely they or their friends will be under the influence of drugs or alcohol sometime during Prom or Graduation season, and 82% believe their peers are likely to drive impaired instead of calling a parent or guardian for help.

In Nebraska, the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08 percent if you are 21 years old or older. For minors, the BAC limit is 0.02 percent. In addition, Nebraska follows implied consent laws. This means that by having a state driver's license, you have given your consent to a blood alcohol test if a law enforcement officer suspects you of driving under the influence.

Advice for Teen Drivers

• Pay Attention. Texting and having other passengers in the vehicle can create dangerous distractions for drivers.
• Slow Down. Speeding is a factor in one-third of all fatal crashes involving teen drivers.
• Stay Alert. Prom celebrations can carry well into the late hours. Avoid driving drowsy.
• Buckle Up. Half of young drivers who die in motor vehicle crashes are not wearing their seat belts.
• Drive Sober. If you become impaired, pass the keys to a sober driver or call your parents for help.

Advice for Parents

• Hire a ride. Limousines are not just for looks. Consider chipping in on a chauffeur so teens don't have to decide who's driving.
• Set the Rules. Establish rules for your teen driver which address safe driving habits and the punishment for breaking them. Consider signing a Parent-Teen driving agreement.
• Open your Home. Encourage your teen to ask friends to spend the night to keep them off the roads.
• Be the Example. While driving, model the same behavior you expect from your kids when they drive. Your kids are always watching you, even if they don't admit it.