Sep 29, 2026|Traffic Safety
Each name etched on the Wall of the Fallen at the International Towing & Recovery Museum is a reminder that roadside safety is deeply personal. Behind every name is a family, a colleague and a life cut short while helping someone in need.
More than 2,100 people were struck and killed while stranded or working on the roadside from 2019 through 2023. New AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research shows an encouraging but incomplete picture: most drivers support Slow Down, Move Over laws and believe drivers should slow down or move over when someone is stopped at the roadside, regardless of what state law requires. Yet many still do not fully understand when the laws apply or that slowing down may be required.
Roadside technicians, tow providers, emergency responders and stranded motorists often work or wait just feet from moving traffic, where one driver’s failure to slow down or move over can have devastating consequences.
"The encouraging news is that most drivers recognize slowing down or moving over as the right thing to do," said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "But awareness and good intentions are not enough. Drivers must turn that understanding into action the moment they see someone stopped at the roadside, because failing to slow down or move over can turn a routine stop into a preventable tragedy."
Every U.S. state has some form of Slow Down, Move Over law, generally requiring drivers to move to another lane when possible and/or reduce their speed when approaching a roadside worker or disabled vehicle. Yet the survey found drivers are often less familiar with protections for tow trucks and stranded vehicles than for police vehicles.
The Research Shows Drivers Care, but Confusion Remains
"Slow Down, Move Over laws vary by state, but the safe choice should be automatic: slow down, move over if you can, and give people at the roadside space. ," Yang said.
Despite these gaps, support is strong: after Slow Down, Move Over laws were explained, 90% of respondents supported them and only 2% opposed them. Even more encouraging, when asked what drivers should do when approaching someone stopped at the roadside — regardless of what the law requires in their state — more than 9 in 10 said drivers should slow down or move over.
This shared instinct matters. The challenge is not convincing drivers that roadside safety matters but helping them recognize when to act — so slowing down and moving over becomes automatic.
Taken together, these findings offer a hopeful takeaway: most drivers value roadside safety, support stronger protections and instinctively understand that slowing down or moving over is the right response.
The opportunity now is to close the gap between shared belief and consistent behavior on the road.
Honoring Those Lost — and Protecting Those Still on the Roadside
Each year, families, friends and colleagues gather at the International Towing & Recovery Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to honor roadside workers whose lives were cut short while helping others. Their names are permanently etched on the museum’s Wall of the Fallen—a lasting reminder that every roadside stop carries risk.
Turning Good Intentions into Action
AAA urges drivers to turn that shared belief into action: stay alert, reduce speed and move over when safe whenever they approach flashing lights, hazard lights or a stopped vehicle on the roadside. The research shows most drivers already believe slowing down or moving over is the right response; now, the challenge is making that response automatic every time. These simple actions take only seconds, but they can save lives.
"The goal is to make slowing down and moving over an automatic response, not a last-second reaction," said Dr. William Van Tassel, AAA Driver Training Manager. "Drivers should scan ahead, ease off the accelerator early, and create space whenever they see flashing lights, hazard lights, or anyone stopped at the roadside."
AAA’s Commitment to Roadside Safety
For more than two decades, AAA has championed Slow Down, Move Over laws nationwide and continues to advocate for clearer laws, stronger enforcement, public education and technology solutions that alert drivers to roadside incidents.
Every name on the Wall of the Fallen is a reminder to make roadside safety automatic:
Slow Down. Move Over. Stay Alert. Save a Life.
Sep 29, 2026|Community
VOORHEES, N.J. (September 29, 2026) — Since the spring of 2025, AAA South Jersey members and associates have donated nearly 10,000 books to BookSmiles! Help us hit the milestone by dropping off new, used and old books to our Voorhees location all October long.
BookSmiles accepts donations of all books, including:
Sep 14, 2026|Automotive, Member News
VOORHEES, N.J. (September 15, 2026) – For more than 75 years, AAA’s Your Driving Costs (YDC) analysis has helped drivers understand the full cost of vehicle ownership. This year’s analysis finds that the average annual cost to own and operate a new vehicle is $12,863, or $1,071.92 per month. This reflects continued increases from fuel prices, depreciation, and finance charges. In 2025, the total annual cost was estimated at $11,577, or $964.78 per month. Note: Methodology updates make this year’s results not directly comparable with last year’s estimate.
This year’s Your Driving Costs analysis integrates select electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids into standard vehicle categories that used to be exclusively traditional gas-powered models, reflecting their growing share in the new-car market.
“By looking at EVs, hybrids and traditional gas-powered vehicles within the same categories, consumers can better understand how total ownership costs vary by powertrain,” said Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of automotive engineering. “Looking at the full ownership picture—including depreciation and other expenses—can help consumers better understand the total cost of each option.”
· Fuel Prices – At the time of the study, the regular-grade gasoline used by nearly all YDC vehicles averaged $4.152 per gallon, while electricity for home EV charging averaged 18.0 cents per kilowatt hour. Gas prices are up 31.8% compared to 2025, while electricity prices rose only 7.8%, improving the relative affordability of EVs and hybrids; however, fuel economy alone did not determine the most affordable vehicle to own.
· Depreciation — The difference between a car’s purchase price and resale value remains the single largest ownership cost, with vehicles losing a weighted average of $4,422 per year. Vehicle type and purchase price both have a significant effect on depreciation for EV shoppers; for example, EV medium sedans had about twice the depreciation of gas-powered models, helping push total ownership costs 29.1% higher in that category.
· Car Prices – The sales-weighted average MSRP of new vehicles this year is $39,376. While MSRPs increased slightly on average, incentives, demand and rebates can
Aug 20, 2026|Travel
VOORHEES, N.J. (Aug. 24, 2026) - As summer comes to an end, many travelers are taking advantage of the last long holiday weekend of the season. AAA booking data shows Seattle, Orlando, Boston, Denver, and New York are the top domestic destinations, while Rome, Vancouver, London, Dublin, and Paris top the international list. This is also the time of year when savvy travelers begin planning vacations for next spring and summer.
“Travelers are seeking memorable experiences, and these top Labor Day destinations reflect that desire,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “AAA members are embarking on Alaska cruises and river cruises, touring National Parks, and sightseeing in Europe. Many of our members are also looking ahead to 2027 and booking cruises and tours now before they sell out.”
AAA’s Top Labor Day Weekend Destinations
| RANKING | DOMESTIC | INTERNATIONAL |
| 1 | SEATTLE, WA | ROME, ITALY |
| 2 | ORLANDO, FL | VANCOUVER, CANADA |
| 3 | BOSTON, MA | LONDON, ENGLAND |
Aug 18, 2026|Traffic Safety
VOORHEES, N.J. (August 20, 2026) – "No one actually drives the speed limit." Three in ten drivers agreed with that statement in a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS), highlighting how speeding has become normalized on today’s roads.
While most drivers agreed that posted speed limits are appropriate, many also considered driving 10 mph over the limit acceptable, and nearly half believed keeping up with traffic is safer than obeying the posted limit.
Those attitudes matter because speeding continues to have deadly consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of traffic fatalities in 2024.
"Findings from this research show that some drivers in the United States view speeding as a normal part of driving," said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. "When people take cues from surrounding traffic instead of following posted speed limits, it creates a culture that makes crashes more difficult to prevent and roads less safe for everyone.”
The findings suggest many drivers aren't speeding simply to save time — they're often convincing themselves that speeding is the right choice for the situation.
Drivers' top reasons for speeding:
Aug 11, 2026|Member News
VOORHEES, N.J. (August 11, 2026) — AAA South Jersey Gives Back and the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club are partnering to collect school supplies for students in need.
Please consider donating any of the items listed below to AAA South Jersey’s Voorhees office — located at 700 Laurel Oak Road — now until the end of the month.
| Backpacks | Wide-ruled notebooks | Crayons (24-count) |
| Washable markers | Colored pencils | No. 2 pencils |
| Pink erasers | Glue sticks | Safety scissors |
| Pencil boxes or pouches | Pocket folders | Composition notebooks |
| Dry-erase markers | Tissues | Hand sanitizer |
Jul 21, 2026|Community, Member News
VOORHEES, N.J. (July 22, 2026) -- AAA South Jersey Gives Back, with the help of our generous AAA members, is proud to support the communities we live, work, and serve in. Here are just a few highlights from the first half of 2026.
For the fourth consecutive year, AAA South Jersey sponsored the Stamp Out Hunger food drive in early May, in conjunction with the National Association of Letter Carriers and the Food Bank of South Jersey.
This year, Stamp Out Hunger resulted in approximately 230,000 pounds of food donated to the Food Bank of South Jersey. The donations will provide more than 191,000 meals to South Jersey residents facing food insecurity.
On Friday, June 12, a team of 11 AAA South Jersey associates spent the afternoon sorting SOH donations at the Food Bank of South Jersey.
Stamp Out Hunger kicked off our Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger campaign. For the second-consecutive year, AAAs across the country joined forces with Feeding America for a coordinated giving and volunteering initiative.
All members who donate at least $10 — 100 meals — will receive a Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger lunch box. To redeem the offer, visit any AAASJ branch – Voorhees, Sewell or Millville – and show proof of your donation.
Congratulations to Erin Hans, the winner of our 2026 high school scholarship essay contest! Erin, a senior at Washington Township High School, was selected by our judges out of more than 300 entrants for the $2,500 scholarship. Erin plans to attend Rowan University in the fall to study nursing. We wish her the best of luck in her very bright future.
Read Erin’s essay here.
Jun 22, 2026|Community
VOORHEES, N.J. (June 24, 2026) — AAA South Jersey Gives Back is partnering with Move For Hunger to take a bite out of hunger this summer. From July 27 through August 27, community members can donate nonperishable food items.
Members can drop off donations at any of our three locations:
Suggested items include:
| Canned Tuna/Chicken | Chicken Broth |
| Pasta, Rice, Quinoa | Peanut/Nut Butters |
| Juice Boxes (no sugar added) | Canned Veggies |
Jun 10, 2026|Travel
WASHINGTON, DC (June 18, 2026) - AAA projects 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for Independence Day between Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, July 5. This year’s domestic travel forecast surpasses last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers, but the increase is smaller than recent year-over-year gains. The number of travelers driving and flying to their destinations is relatively flat compared to last year, while travel by other modes, including cruises, is the category seeing the biggest increase.
“For many Americans, traveling the week of July 4th is tradition,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “The 9-day travel forecast includes travelers who are vacationing all week and people just getting away for the long holiday weekend. While the overall number of Independence Day travelers appears to be plateauing, we’re still expecting record volumes this year.”
Independence Day Travelers by Mode of Transportation
By Car: AAA projects 61.4 million people will travel by car over July 4th week, nearly the same number as last year when 61.3 million travelers took road trips. 85% of Americans traveling for Independence Day are expected to drive to their destinations, despite gas prices reaching four-year highs. Last year, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.15. This year, prices are higher but remain lower than 2022, when the national average was $4.80 on Independence Day. Despite higher gas prices, filling up the tank during a road trip is still cheaper than purchasing flights for many travelers, especially for families with kids.
For travelers renting cars over July 4th, AAA car rental partner Hertz expects Thursday, July 2 to be the busiest pickup day. Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York City are the cities with the highest demand based on advanced bookings. According to AAA booking data, domestic car rentals are 10% more expensive this holiday week compared to last year.
By Air: AAA projects 5.85 million travelers will take domestic flights over July 4th week, a 0.2% increase over last year. Air travelers make up 8% of the share of holiday travelers. According to AAA data, which is based on what travelers paid when they booked their Independence Day trips, roundtrip domestic flights to top destinations like Chicago and Denver are 5% more expensive. Domestic flights overall are averaging about $830 a ticket.
Jun 2, 2026|Community
VOORHEES, N.J. (June 2, 2026) – AAA South Jersey is happy to announce the winner of our 2026 High School Scholarship Contest, Erin Hans!
Erin, a senior at Washington Township High School, was awarded the $2,500 scholarship for her essay on travel, which you can read below. Erin was selected as the recipient of this year’s scholarship out of more than 300 entrants.
“I feel like I have a lot of thoughts on my mind, so I always felt the need to write them down. My mom said I was a good writer from super early on so I kind of just stuck with it. But I find joy in it. I feel like it's super peaceful and therapeutic to get everything down,” Erin said.
Erin plans on attending Rowan University in the fall to study nursing. Eventually, she aspires to be a travel nurse and work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Scholarship contest entrants were asked to write a 500-word essay on the follow topic:
For generations, AAA has been part of countless journeys. Travel isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about the stories we collect along the way. Think back to a trip that changed you—maybe a family vacation that brought you closer together, or a solo adventure that taught you something unexpected. Or imagine a future journey you dream of taking, one that could transform your perspective. In your essay, tell the story of that experience: what moments stand out, what lessons you discovered, and how it shaped -- or could shape -- the way you see the world.
So where would Erin like to travel in the future?
“There's so many. I don’t even know. Maybe Switzerland? Croatia,” she said.
The annual AAA South Jersey Scholarship Contest is open to high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited two- or four-year college or technical school. To be eligible, the student must reside and attend school in Camden, Gloucester, Cumberland, or Salem Counties.
Every student who enters a qualified submission receives a free, one-year AAA Basic Student Membership.
Read Erin’s full essay below. If you are wondering, the cat in Erin’s essay is named Jalen. Yes, after Jalen Hurts.
Members can drop donations in our book bin, located in the waiting area of our Voorhees location at 700 Laurel Oak Road. We also accept book donations all year round.
Since 2017, BookSmiles has distributed more than 5 million children’s books to those in need.
affect what consumers ultimately pay. The actual purchase price is used to calculate finance costs and depreciation.
By comparing select electric and hybrid models within the same categories as gas-powered vehicles, AAA gives shoppers a more practical view of how ownership costs compare across powertrains.
· Gas-powered vehicles: Overall, gas models offered savings compared to EVs and hybrids in cost categories affected by purchase price, like finance charges, taxes and fees, and depreciation. For example, gas-powered medium sedans cost $10,582 per year to own — $3,080 less than comparable EV medium sedans, which had significantly higher depreciation, fees and finance costs.
· Electric vehicles: EVs delivered the lowest fuel costs, with charging costs for EVs about 66%–70% lower than fuel costs for traditional gas vehicles across the categories studied. However, those savings were often outweighed by higher depreciation, fees and finance costs; medium-sedan EVs, for example, cost 29.1% more to own annually than gas-powered models.
· Hybrids: Hybrids were the most consistently lower-cost alternative to gas in the comparison categories. They combined meaningful fuel savings with smaller ownership-cost tradeoffs, costing less annually than gas-powered models in medium sedans, compact SUVs, medium SUVs and pickup trucks.
Vehicle category makes a major difference. ½-ton pickups cost $1.10 per mile to operate — 48 cents more than small sedans — adding an average of $7,191 per year. In comparison, purchasing an EV may help offset annual fuel costs, but higher depreciation can increase total ownership costs over time. Choosing a vehicle that fits actual transportation needs can help buyers manage long-term costs.
· Create a monthly and annual budget that includes ownership and operating costs before purchasing.
· Keep the vehicle price, finance rate, and trade-in value as separate negotiations.
· Get pre-approved by a financial institution, such as a bank, credit union or AAA, before discussing financing with the dealer.
Your Driving Costs calculator helps shoppers compare ownership costs by vehicle category, powertrain, location and driving habits. AAA also offers additional tools to support vehicle research, shopping and repair planning:
· AAA Car Guide: Annual guide that rates vehicles with the latest automotive technology.
· AAA’s Car Buying Program: Comparisons consumers can use while shopping for and buying a vehicle.
· EV 101 Digital Buyer’s Guide: Educational resource for consumers shopping for EVs.
· Repair Cost Calculator: Breakdown of estimated parts and labor costs, including AAA member discounts, available at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.
AAA’s YDC analysis discussed here estimates the cost of owning and operating a new vehicle for personal transportation over five years and 75,000 miles. Actual driving costs vary based on driving habits, location, operating conditions, and other factors.
AAA evaluated seven vehicle categories and 34 top-selling models across fuel, maintenance, repair and tire costs, license, registration and taxes, depreciation and finance charges.
For EV and hybrid comparisons, AAA evaluated selected top-selling models in four categories — medium sedans, compact SUVs, medium SUVs and pickup trucks — alongside gas-powered models to show how ownership costs vary by powertrain within the same vehicle categories.
Because the EV and hybrid comparison uses a smaller set of categories, its overall results should not be directly compared with the overall results from the full YDC study.
For a full breakdown of the methodology and cost comparisons, download and review the Your Driving Costs fact sheet and brochure.
About AAA
Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.
| 4 | DENVER, CO | DUBLIN, IRELAND |
| 5 | NEW YORK, NY | PARIS, FRANCE |
| 6 | CHICAGO, IL | CALGARY, CANADA |
| 7 | ANAHEIM/LOS ANGELES, CA | BARCELONA, SPAIN |
| 8 | LAS VEGAS, NV | ATHENS, GREECE |
| 9 | ANCHORAGE, AK | AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS |
| 10 | ATLANTA, GA | HALIFAX, CANADA |
The Great Outdoors
Labor Day weekend travelers are looking to squeeze the most out of the unofficial end of summer. Mild temperatures and longer days mean many travelers opt to explore the great outdoors. AAA bookings show that Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver are all top destinations, and there’s a common thread: Alaska cruises. AAA travel agents say U.S. National Parks are popular this time of year, with many travelers renting cars in Denver and Las Vegas and driving to Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches, Zion, and Grand Canyon. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Friday, September 4 will be the busiest pick-up day. In addition to Denver and Las Vegas, Hertz says Orlando, Los Angeles, and Boston also have high car rental demand during Labor Day weekend.
History and Culture
Whether it’s learning about U.S. history in Boston and Chicago or visiting ancient ruins in Rome and Athens, many Labor Day weekend travelers are seeking an educational experience. AAA travel agents say many members choose to explore historical cities, especially in Europe, with a guided tour. The planned itineraries, meals, and transportation offer peace of mind for travelers who don’t want to spend time researching and booking trips on their own.
Domestic vs. International
Whether travelers choose domestic versus international trips depends on their budget, schedule, and interests. Labor Day weekend travelers who are staying in the U.S. are paying 2% more for roundtrip flights compared to last year, averaging $750 per ticket. The price is even higher for people who are traveling to the top domestic destinations. AAA booking data shows those flights are 20% higher than last year, averaging nearly $800 per ticket. International flights are 4% cheaper this Labor Day weekend, averaging $1,240 per ticket.
Hitting the Road
For travelers taking road trips, gas prices are higher this Labor Day weekend compared to last year. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.19 on Labor Day in 2025 when crude oil prices were lower. Before hitting the road, AAA recommends checking your tires, battery, and fluids to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. Packing an emergency kit with water, snacks, first-aid supplies, and essential tools like flashlights and jumper cables is also important. Last Labor Day weekend, AAA responded to more than 400,000 roadside assistance calls for flat tires, dead batteries, and emergency towing.
Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car over Labor Day Weekend
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says unlike longer holiday periods, travel over Labor Day weekend tends to be concentrated within a short window. Many travelers will hit the road after work on Thursday or during the day on Friday. That will bring holiday traffic onto roads that are already carrying normal commuter volumes. INRIX recommends departing early, allowing additional time, and avoiding the middle of the afternoon whenever possible. Even leaving an hour or two earlier can make a meaningful difference.
Labor Day Weekend
AAA looked at booking data for Thursday, September 3 through Monday, September 7, and compared those numbers with booking data for that same five-day holiday period in 2025.
About AAA
Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.
About INRIX
Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.
Drivers' top reasons to slow down:
The report also found that drivers generally prefer countermeasures that encourage safer speeds over those that physically force them to slow down. Drivers expressed strong support for increased police presence in areas with a history (87%) or potential (88%) for speed-related crashes, and roughly seven in ten supported automated speed cameras in those locations. Drivers also viewed advisory Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) – in-vehicle warnings or alerts when a driver exceeds the speed limit – more favorably than technology that automatically limits vehicle speed.
Support declined for countermeasures that remove driver choice. Although more than nine in ten drivers believed speed humps are effective, fewer than half supported installing them in their own neighborhoods. Support for ISA decreased as the technology became more restrictive, i.e. if the driver could not override the system.
"There is no silver bullet for addressing traffic safety risks caused by speeding," Dr. Yang said. "Understanding which strategies drivers are most willing to adopt can help policymakers and safety professionals develop interventions that are both effective and publicly acceptable."
Changing attitudes around speeding will take time, but drivers can make a difference now by making safe speed choices each time they get behind the wheel.
"Choosing the right speed isn't about how quickly you'll get there -- or how fast everyone else is driving," said Dr. Bill Van Tassel, Manager of AAA's national driver training program. "It's about choosing a pace that gives you the time and space to react when something unexpected happens. That's what helps prevent crashes."
Choose your speed based on:
If you find yourself driving the speed limit while everyone around you is speeding,
New Jersey drivers’ attitudes toward speeding were mostly identical to drivers’ nationally but for two areas of significance (greater than 5% difference).
15% of Garden State drivers identified as non-speeders – compared to 21% nationally. At the other end of the spectrum, 23% of New Jersey drivers said they were frequent speeders – compared to 15% nationally.
To read the report and supporting materials, visit the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety's website.
About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, publicly supported charitable research and education organization. It was founded in 1947 by the American Automobile Association to conduct research to address growing highway safety issues. The organization’s mission is to identify traffic safety problems, foster research that seeks solutions, and disseminate information and educational materials. AAA Foundation funding comes from voluntary, tax-deductible contributions from motor clubs associated with the American Automobile Association and the Canadian Automobile Association, individual AAA club members, insurance companies and other individuals or groups.
About AAA
Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.
| Disinfecting wipes | Reusable water bottles | Lunch boxes |
All items will be given to the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club to distribute to children in need at the end of August.
In 2026, AAA members have donated approximately 2,000 books to BookSmiles, a local nonprofit organization that promotes childhood literacy, supports educators, and strengthens communities. Our Voorhees office — located at 700 Laurel Oak Road — accepts book donations year-round!
This summer, AAA South Jersey is providing 15 scholarships AWA’s Camp Tails & Whiskers to ensure children can attend summer camp regardless of financial barriers.
To celebrate Earth Month, AAA South Jersey committed to plant one tree for each vehicle battery we recycled in the month of April. With 686 batteries replaced and recycled by our fleet during April, AAA South Jersey Gives Back partnered with One Tree Planted to plant 686 trees in areas of the United States most in need of reforestation.
About AAA South Jersey Gives Back
AAA was founded on the mission of helping people. Our AAA South Jersey Gives Back program takes this mission from the roadside to the heart of our communities, where we are needed most. AAA South Jersey, its associates, and members are committed to giving back year-round through donations, collection efforts, volunteering, scholarships, and more.
| Canned Soups/Stews/Chili | Beans (canned or dried) |
| Boxes Mac & Cheese | Baby Food/Formula |
| Shelf Stable Rice/Almond/Soy Milk | Cereal/Oatmeal/Granola |
| Cooking Oils | *No glass containers please |
Did you know 119 billion pounds of food goes to waste in the U.S. every year? That’s equivalent to 158 billion cans of tuna. And every 40 cans of tuna feeds 25 people.
This summer, AAA launched Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger — a nationwide coordinated giving and volunteering initiative designed to support communities where we live, work and serve. Last year, the campaign generated 7.2 million meals.
If you cannot donate canned goods but would still like to fight hunger, you can donate directly to Feeding America here.
All members who donate at least $10 — 100 meals — will receive a Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger lunch box. To redeem the offer, visit any AAASJ branch – Voorhees, Sewell or Millville – and show proof of your donation.
By Other Modes: Travel by other modes is seeing the biggest year-over-year growth compared to car and air travel. AAA projects 4.93 million Americans will take buses, trains, and cruises over Independence Day week, a 5.3% increase from last year. This year is also expected to surpass 2019’s figure of 4.79 million travelers, due in large part to the post-COVID cruising boom. Travelers are drawn to cruise vacations because they know how much the trip will cost upfront, and the ship offers all-inclusive dining, various entertainment options, and multiple destinations.
AAA’s Top Independence Day Destinations
AAA members are heading to major U.S. cities over July 4th week and flying internationally to Canada and Europe. Alaska cruises are in peak season, that’s why Seattle, Anchorage, and Fairbanks are all top domestic destinations. Independence Day fireworks and festivities in New York, Chicago, and Boston also draw big crowds. Florida ranks high thanks to theme parks, beaches, and cruise ports. On the international side, Vancouver tops the list, followed by major European cities like Rome, Dublin, Paris, and London.
Summer Safety on the Road
July 4th week can be especially dangerous on the road with more teen drivers behind the wheel and a rise in impaired driving due to holiday festivities. That’s why AAA is urging drivers to commit to 100 Days of Safe Driving this summer. According to AAA crash data analysis, nearly one in three summertime traffic deaths involves an impaired driver. AAA, in partnership with MADD, reminds anyone who plans to drink or use impairing substances to arrange a sober ride before going out.
Drivers preparing to take road trips should also prioritize car maintenance and stay on top of routine oil changes, plus check battery condition and tire pressure. Last year during Independence Day week, AAA responded to more than 687,000 roadside assistance calls. Half of those required towing services, and nearly 30% of those calls were for battery replacement and flat tires.
Once on the road, AAA reminds drivers to Slow Down, Move Over whenever there are emergency responders and stranded motorists on the side of the road. By reducing speed and changing lanes, drivers allow roadside workers to do their jobs safely and help prevent tragedies.
Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro
INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says the second weekend of the holiday period will be the busiest on the roads, starting Thursday, July 2. But in certain metros, like Boston, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, peak congestion is expected Saturday, June 27. Drivers looking to avoid the heaviest traffic should leave early in the day or consider traveling on Monday or Tuesday.
Please note the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located. For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.
Independence Day Holiday Travel Period
AAA’s Independence Day holiday travel period spans nine days and includes two weekends. This year, the dates range from Saturday, June 27 to Sunday, July 5. Historically, this holiday period included only one weekend. The expanded travel window was instituted starting in 2024 with historical results calculated back to 2019 using the new nine-day period.
Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology
In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.
Historical travel volume estimates come from MMGY’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM. The PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. MMGY contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.
The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was finalized the week of May 18, 2026.
Because AAA holiday forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes, whether traveling for work or leisure. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.
INRIX Methodology
INRIX blends statistically grounded models with real-world road behavior to forecast travel conditions on the most heavily traveled routes across the U.S. during peak holiday periods. INRIX’s holiday traffic forecast combines pre-selected high-impact travel routes, rich multi-source traffic data, and a statistically robust linear regression model to generate detailed, time-specific travel delay predictions. INRIX’s data sources include a wide array of vehicle-based and infrastructure-based inputs. These include connected vehicle GPS data, mobile apps and navigation services, roadside sensors and cameras, and commercial fleet telematics. With expansive coverage, high temporal resolution, and historical context, this forecasting process provides essential insights for travelers, media, and agencies alike.
About AAA
Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.
About S&P Global Market Intelligence
At S&P Global Market Intelligence, we understand the importance of accurate, deep and insightful information. Our team of experts delivers unrivaled insights and leading data and technology solutions, partnering with customers to expand their perspective, operate with confidence, and make decisions with conviction. S&P Global Market Intelligence is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). S&P Global is the world’s foremost provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help many of the world’s leading organizations navigate the economic landscape so they can plan for tomorrow, today. For more information, visit spglobal.com/marketintelligence.
About MMGY
MMGY Global is the world’s leading integrated marketing firm specializing in the travel, hospitality, and lifestyle industries. With operating brands around the world, the award-winning organization maintains a global communications practice in all marketing channels, serving many of the world’s premier travel and tourism brands. As a company dedicated to the travel industry, MMGY Global strives to create a connected, inclusive, and peaceful world by promoting travel as a cultural bridge of understanding. For more information, visit www.mmgyglobal.com.
About INRIX
Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.