Be patient if you plan to travel this Labor Day weekend

Labor Day weekend is fast approaching and this summer’s record-breaking travel continues into this long holiday weekend.

As people head out of town for the last holiday weekend of the summer, police and AAA are warning everyone to prepare and stay focused to arrive safely at their destination.

Steve Peifer says he’s making time to travel now that he’s retired. This weekend, he’s driving through the Midwest, spending time with his family on the road, where it’s all about Mount Rushmore — or bust.

“I have the most capable brother-in-law in Minnesota,” Peifer said. “I’ll be sitting in the car eating snacks.”

But for those who Are When you get behind the wheel, AAA reminds drivers to make sure their vehicles undergo routine maintenance to avoid being stranded on the side of the road during the busy holiday weekend.

AAA also advises travelers to allow sufficient extra time to ensure the schedule is met.

“Patience is probably one of the most important things to have, especially if you’re flying. And then planning helps, too. Remember, people are going to leave early and enjoy that last weekend before school really starts, before work starts again and before the travel season basically comes to a standstill until the holidays,” said AAA Public Affairs Specialist Brian Ortner.

Bob Conrad, a trooper with the Iowa State Patrol, advises: If you plan to drive, put your phone away – but keep it nearby in case you need to call 911 in an emergency.

He recommends keeping your eyes on the road and wearing your seatbelt. Government data shows that more than 43% of traffic fatalities this year were due to the person not wearing a seatbelt.

“Our goal this holiday weekend is to arrive safely. We want to travel, have fun with family and friends, or celebrate the last hurrah of summer, whatever you want to call it. So make sure you do it right. If you do everything right, you will come home alive, and that’s what we really want,” said Trooper Conrad.

By following a few simple traffic rules on Labor Day, families like Peifer can enjoy their holiday road trip and return home safely.

Gas prices are currently lower compared to last year.

According to AAA, the average price per gallon across Iowa is more than 50 cents lower than it was on Labor Day last year.