A record 43.8 million are expected to travel this Memorial Day holiday weekend -- the second highest since 2000, according to AAA. Of those, 38.4 million will get behind the wheel, an increase of 4% from last year and the highest number ever projected by AAA.
"We haven't seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, said in a statement.
A record number of people on road trips means some will have the unfortunate luck of getting stuck on the side of the road when their car breaks down. AAA expects to rescue more than 378,000 stranded motorists nationwide over the holiday weekend -- an increase of 5% from last year.
The three most common reasons expected for service calls are flat tires, dead batteries and lockouts.
Making sure your vehicle is ready for the road is more important than building the perfect playlist or stocking up on snacks -- and it won't even take that long.
AAA urges all drivers to have their vehicle inspected before taking a trip, but you can also take several actions to prevent a breakdown before it happens, including:
Check your tires – At minimum, AAA recommends checking your tires once a month and before taking a long trip. Pay special attention to both tire inflation pressure and tread depth. Be sure to inspect all four tires and the spare tire if your vehicle has one.
Check your battery – The average car battery life is typically 3-5 years. If your engine is slow to start and/or your lights are dim, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. Visual signs of damage or corrosion are other indicators of deterioration.
Listen to and feel the brakes – If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection.
Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner – Rubber wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 6-12 months. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades.
Top off engine oil and other fluids – Check that engine oil, coolant and brake, transmission and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in the owner's manual.
Replenish emergency kit supplies – AAA recommends keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.
With more people sharing the roads, the danger is multiplied for those on the roadside.
AAA Tips for Drivers who Experience Car Trouble
• Get to the nearest exit or stopping point if you are safely able to do so.
• Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers are aware you are there.
• Call for assistance.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it's safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert. Quickly move to a safe location. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.