Fourth of July in Michigan: Millions to hit the road — but don't get stranded

• AAA predicts that 2.6 million Michiganders will travel during Fourth of July weekend
• The majority — 2.3 million people — will travel by car while 94,262 will travel by plane
• The auto club predicts that 800,000 drivers in the U.S. will become stranded during the holiday weekend

A record-setting 2.6 million Michiganders are expected to travel during Fourth of July weekend, according to AAA.

Between Saturday and July 7, 2.3 million people will hit the road and another 94,262 will take flight, while 155,535 people will travel by some other means of transportation. 

Roughly 117,000 more people than last year are expected to travel during the holiday weekend, setting a record for the second consecutive year. Last year, 2.4 million Michiganders traveled during the Fourth of July weekend, 2.2 million by car and 90,444 by plane.

“Road travelers should prepare for congestion in the afternoon and evening hours, particularly near larger metro areas, theme parks and popular attractions,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA in a press statement. “With so many people on the road it’s important to be patient, minimize distractions while driving, and move over for people on the roadside.”

Related:

• Fourth of July fireworks celebrations in Michigan, rules and safety tips
• In Michigan, 'fixing the damn roads' got really darned expensive

Gas prices are also slightly higher than they were last year during the Fourth of July weekend. Michigan drivers currently pay an average of $3.67 for a gallon of regular gas compared to $3.52 last year. 

Don’t get stranded

Road-trippers are warned to check their vehicles before traveling. AAA predicts that, nationwide, it will have to rescue nearly 800,000 people who become stranded on the road. 

Most people become stranded due to dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts, according to the auto company. 

"The hotter summer months take a toll on your vehicle’s battery and tires,” Woodland said in a statement. “That’s why it’s so important to get a pre-trip vehicle inspection. Doing so could uncover potential vehicle problems that might not otherwise reveal themselves until your trip.”

AAA recommends that drivers also: 

• Listen to and feel the brakes. If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, you should take your car to the auto shop for a repair 
• Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner. It is recommended that wiper blades be replaced every six to 12 months. 
• Check that the engine oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. 
• Stock up on emergency-kit supplies for your vehicle, including  a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks, booster cables and emergency flares or reflectors.

Drivers that are experiencing car troubles should pull over, turn on their hazard lights, call for assistance and remain in the vehicle while waiting for help. 

“AAA’s roadside technicians will put their lives on the line to rescue the hundreds of thousands of drivers on the roadside with car trouble,” Woodland said. “We urge drivers to stay focused on the road and its shoulders. Whether it’s a first responder, tow truck or disabled vehicle, if you see flashing lights, move over so everyone can make it home safely for the holiday.”