Advisory for 4th of July travelers
With the Fourth of July falling on a Saturday this year, you can expect a lot of people to hit the roads this weekend.
“It’s good for the travelers but it’s crazy driving in that kind of traffic,” said Ephantus Ngigi of Indio who plans to possibly head to Las Vegas.
AAA estimates nearly 2.5 million Southern California residents to travel somewhere by car this weekend, a big jump in recent years.
One of the reasons may be falling gas prices.
“They’re better that’s for sure,” Jack Tapleshay.
“It’s great we need to save some money, you bet,” said Jon Gironda.
Some locals see the boost in travel as a sign of a recovering economy.
“I’ve been in the Coachella Valley a while and I’ve seen the economy picking up. More people traveling, more business,” Gironda said.
“I think a lot of part-time people are employed and it looks better but I don’t think it’s great. the gas prices though, yes,” said Tanya O’Brien of La Quinta.
Whatever the reason for the uptick in travel, the California Highway Patrol will have extra officers out this weekend to make sure the roads are safe.
CHP says make sure to drink responsibly and if you’re headed on a road trip, be prepared:
1. Stay hydrated, bring water especially if your destination or the ride to it is hot
2. Know where you’re going and the stops along the way
3. Check your car’s fluids, tires and air conditioning
4. Bring a charger for your phone so you can call if you need help, and let your friends and family know where you’re going
5. Get enough rest. Tired driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving.
But not everyone in the valley is planning to leave for the weekend, in fact, many locals we met are excited to celebrate the nation’s birthday right here at home.
“I’m going to look for fireworks. All over the valley there’s something going on,” Gironda said.
“I get to have time to spend with friends,” said Ngigi.
“I’m staying here. And this holiday means a lot to me because I’m an American and I’m proud to be an American, and to celebrate that we are a free country and I love my country,” O’Brien said.
