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Aug. 11 Among Busiest Days On American Roads

By: Rebecca Blatt // August 11, 2011
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Tons of travelers eager for one more summer getaway means that August days are some of the most dangerous on the roads, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic.
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Tons of travelers eager for one more summer getaway means that August days are some of the most dangerous on the roads, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic.

The first two weeks of August are among the busiest for American highways, with millions of people trying to squeeze in a getaway before the end of the summer.

When it comes to the deadliest days to drive on American roads, five of the top 15 are in August. August 11 is one of them.

John Townsend, spokesman for Automobile Association of America's Mid-Atlantic region, says there's a jump in accidents not only because there are more people on the road but also because drivers on vacation tend to let down their guard.

"It's the summer doldrums out there," he says. "It's easy to let your mind drift off when you're behind the wheel. But that can be potentially dangerous."

Townsend says that vacation state of mind may be especially prevalent in our area, with Congress on August recess.

He urges drivers to get plenty of sleep before road trips, stop for breaks at least every 100 miles and -- if possible -- take turns behind the wheel.

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