Prepare for record travel: AAA, Virginia State Police urge safe driving ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, meaning millions are preparing to travel. With a significant surge in road trips expected, AAA and Virginia State Police are issuing reminders reminder to all drivers: drive safely, smartly and soberly.

Of the more than 1,230,000 Virginians anticipated to travel over the weekend, nearly 90% are expected to road trip. This high volume underscores the importance of staying alert, driving at appropriate speeds and always buckling up.

"The real big thing to remember is that you're not the only one [who's] going to be traveling," said Morgan Dean, spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic. "There's going to be a lot of people out there."

AAA is predicting record-breaking travel numbers, urging drivers to plan accordingly.

"If you're driving, leave early and give yourself extra time to get to where you're going," Dean said. "Following that, speed limits [are] an important thing as well."

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The need for caution is evident in past holiday statistics. During last year's Memorial Day weekend, Virginia State Police troopers cited over 3,500 drivers for speeding and more than 1,400 for reckless driving.

Beyond mindful driving, seatbelt use remains a critical safety measure. Dean emphasized that putting on your seatbelt should be the first step before leaving the house.

"Before they ever even back out of the parking space or back out of the garage for that trip, is to put that seatbelt on and to make sure every other person in that vehicle is buckled in and buckled in correctly, especially if it's a child seat," Dean said.

Virginia actively participates in the annual "Click It or Ticket" campaign each May, serving as a stark reminder that failing to wear a seatbelt may result in a citation. In 2024, state police issued 535 seatbelt violations and 112 child restraint citations during the holiday period.

For those planning to travel, AAA anticipates Thursday, May 22, and Friday, May 23, will be the busiest days on the roads as many people head out after work. To avoid the heaviest traffic, consider adjusting your departure time by leaving earlier in the day or later in the evening if your schedule permits.