AAA of Nebraska expects 4.3 million people on region’s roads Thanksgiving weekend

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Holiday travel will bring extra traffic to regional roadways over the next several days.

Over 4.3 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more in Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa and Kansas over Thanksgiving weekend, said Brian Ortner with AAA of Nebraska.  

With so many people hitting the road, officials said there are many things to keep in mind.

“Whether you’re going on a road trip or you’re going to the airport to catch a plane, leave early,” Ortner said. 

AAA is also offering a free service in an effort to keep impaired drivers off the road.

It’s activating the Tow to Go program in Nebraska and Iowa, offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.

It is available for AAA members and non-members. You can call 855-286-9246 for the service.

“It’s a local ride for one person and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius,” Ortner said. 

The Nebraska State Patrol is also reminding travelers that safe driving is part of the recipe for a great holiday weekend.

Troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime throughout the weekend.

The patrol is launching the Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time campaign, which runs from Wednesday through Sunday. 

If you need help on the road, you can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55.