Traveling for Christmas? So are millions of others. How to avoid NC’s worst traffic
Drivers hitting the road for Christmas may want to prepare for traffic and rain in North Carolina.
This year, more than 3 million of the state’s residents are expected to get to their destinations by car, according to AAA. That makes the road the most popular way to get around during the holiday travel season, which spans Dec. 22 to Jan. 1.
Just as the peak period for travel starts, rain is expected in parts of the Tar Heel state, the National Weather Service says.
In the Charlotte area, chances for wet weather start overnight Sunday and linger until Monday, the service says. The Triangle could see rain late Sunday and early Monday, according to the forecast.
So how can you avoid a travel nightmare?
Nationwide, the biggest delays are expected on Dec. 26, according to AAA. It predicts a record-breaking 115.6 million people could travel by plane, train or other forms of transportation close to Christmas and New Year’s Day.
For drivers wanting to steer clear of traffic, AAA suggests getting on the road before or after morning rush hour. People should also avoid “driving through major cities during peak travel times,” the company says.
For those who don’t mind traveling on Christmas, AAA says roads may be less congested that day.
Another tip is to avoid aggressive behavior on the road.
“The holidays can be stressful as drivers battle congested roadways and head to busy shopping centers in search of that last minute gift,” Tiffany Wright, AAA Carolinas spokesperson, said in a news release.
And drivers may want to keep in mind that N.C. State Highway Patrol says it will focus on speeding, reckless driving and other factors that could lead to crashes.
If you get caught driving in the rain, officials suggest giving yourself extra time to get to your destination.
Drivers should also be cautious and avoid going into standing water, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation.
This story was originally published December 20, 2019 at 10:26 AM with the headline "Traveling for Christmas? So are millions of others. How to avoid NC’s worst traffic."
