Drivers are thankful to be hitting the road again to see their loved ones for Thanksgiving

 

ROLLING PRAIRIE, Ind. -- If you are driving to your Thanksgiving destination, be prepared to see busy roads, after many travelers opted to stay home last November. 

But this year, many Americans are finding themselves on the road again. 

“I’m traveling from Chicago to Cleveland," said Molly Mikolajczyk.

Jim Carillo, also from the Chicagoland area, proclaimed his destination: “Pennsylvania!”

AAA estimated that traffic will be just below the levels previously seen in 2019, and predicted around 53 million Americans will be traveling for the holiday.

Some are taking the opportunity now, as vaccines are more available and travel restrictions are starting to ease.

“It’s been a couple years since I’ve traveled for Thanksgiving," said Carillo. "You know, through the pandemic, and restrictions going down, definitely, it’s been a little better to get away from home and enjoy something different.”

Mikolajczyk said “In Chicago, we have masks everywhere, still. Not the case in Ohio, but yeah, it seems a little bit easier to travel.”

Though some definitely noticed the increase in fellow drivers. 

They definitely feel more congested, and patience wears out sometimes,” laughed Carillo.

But one thing is for sure, travelers were excited to be hitting the road, for the most part. 

“I mean, I don’t know if I’d say ‘excited,’ but, its fine," Mikolajczyk laughed. "It’s better than flying.”

At the very least, they are thankful to be seeing their loved ones for Thanksgiving, and hope everyone travels safely. 

“Happy Holidays, and safe travels for the rest of the people,” said Carillo.

“Stay safe. Happy Thanksgiving!” echoed Mikolajczyk.

AAA advised drivers to check their vehicles before leaving-- in particular their brakes, tires and fluid levels-- to prevent any breakdowns on the road.