Michigan Puts 1.2 Million People on The Road This Fourth of July Weekend

DEARBORN, MI--June 22, 2011: An estimated 1.2 million Michiganians will travel on vacation during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, slightly less than last year, reports AAA Michigan. Nationally, AAA projects approximately 39 million travelers taking a trip at least 50 miles from home, down 2.5 percent.  The Fourth of July holiday travel period is defined as Thursday, June 30 to Monday, July 4.

AAA projects a slight decline in holiday travelers mainly due to fuel prices being about $1 more per gallon more than last year.  The July 4th holiday period is typically the busiest time of year for family auto travel.  In Michigan, an estimated 87 percent of travelers will go by vehicle compared to 84 percent nationally -- with five percent flying and eight percent going by bus or train.

"While gas prices are significantly more than they were last year, prices have come down in the last two weeks and we are seeing travelers taking to the roads this summer holiday to enjoy our Great Lakes and outdoor destinations," noted AAA Michigan President Steve Wagner.  "Travelers are making some adjustments to pay for the increase in gas costs."

While AAA's survey of intended travelers found that 56 percent said rising gas prices would not impact their travel plans, the remaining 44 percent who said it would said they would economize in other areas, including taking a shorter trip.  Michigan motorists will find gas prices  88 cents higher than last year -- $3.68 per gallon as of June 22.

The average distance traveled by Americans this Fourth of July holiday weekend is forecast to be 573 miles, seven percent less than last year's 617 miles. Median spending is estimated to be $807, up 25 percent from last year's $644.  The increase includes higher hotel prices.  Rates for AAA Three Diamond lodgings are expected to increase three percent from a year ago with travelers spending an average $147 nightly, compared to $143.  Those heading to AAA Two Diamond hotels will pay $110 per night, up eight percent.

According to AAA's Leisure Travel Index, airfares over the holiday weekend are expected to increase 11 percent more than last year, with the average lowest round-trip rate of $213 for the top 40 U.S. air routes.

This holiday weekend, AAA Michigan will once again partner with the Michigan State Police (MSP) in supporting Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort).  Bright yellow banners will be posted at rest areas statewide, with many sites offering complimentary coffee and refreshments.  Volunteers will provide information about some of the causes of deadly crashes and how to avoid them.

During last year's July 4th holiday period, eight people died in eight fatal crashes, including four motorcyclists.  Two of the deaths were alcohol-related.

AAA's projections are based on economic forecasting and research conducted by IHS Global Insight.  AAA has been reporting on holiday travel trends for more than two decades.