© 2024 WEKU
NPR for Central and Eastern Kentucky
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Our End of Year Drive ends today at Noon! Support WEKU! Become a monthly supporter or increase your support to help us meet our goal of 150 supporters by Noon!

Kentuckians can expect busy roadways during the Thanksgiving travel season

Stu Johnson
File Photo-Triple A's Lori Weaver Hawkins

Monday marks the start of one of the busiest travel times for many Kentuckians.  The vast majority of traveling citizens in the Commonwealth will visit family and friends by car.

Just over one million Kentuckians are expected to take a Thanksgiving trip this week.  Nationally about 84% take road trips.  In Kentucky, Triple-A of the Bluegrass Spokeswoman Lori Weaver Hawkins said more like 96% take to the highways.  But she added airline travel will be busy too.

“It will take longer to get through the lines and it’s going to be more crowded, not only as you initially leave, but coming home as well.  And if you have connection flights,” said Weaver Hawkins

Weaver Hawkins said gas prices are about 20 cents lower than Thanksgiving week of last year.  The Triple-A rep said car rental prices are down some while higher costs are associated with cruises.  Weaver Hawkins said it’s best to avoid traveling Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon, if possible.

So, Weaver Hawkins said leaving early can lessen stress.

“Try to leave out, give yourself plenty of time, so you don’t become frustrated behind the wheel.  If you do get a delay, we don’t  want anyone driving aggressively and running stoplights in the City or changing lanes abruptly or getting angry with other drivers.”

Weaver Hawkins said, hopefully, weather conditions won’t be a major factor in Kentucky.  But she noted, it’s important to bring along emergency kits that can include jumper cables, a flare, blankets, kitty litter for traction, water, and snacks.  The Triple-A official added Thanksgiving is traditionally the busiest travel period of the year.

** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.

Stu Johnson retired from WEKU in November, 2024 after reporting for the station for 40 years. Stu's primary beat was Lexington/Fayette government.
WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.
Related Content