Speeding increases over Labor Day weekend, according to new insights from Allstate’s safe driving program, Drivewise.
The insurer’s analysis focuses on American driving habits: from speeding and hard braking to congestion and breakdowns.
The data covers Labor Day week (Wednesday through Tuesday), comparing real-time driving behavior to average summer patterns.
“We see driving habits really change over Labor Day weekend,” said Brian Dieringer, president of Allstate Roadside. “You’ve got fewer drivers slamming on the brakes and more stepping on the gas, which is a clear sign people are trading the daily commute for a road trip.”
Cities that are projected to see the greatest increases in out-of-state drivers include:
- Nashville
- Colorado Springs
- Las Vegas
- Austin
- San Antonio
Slowdowns are expected on these major metro routes:
- Atlanta: I-85, I-75, I-20
- Houston: I-10, I-45
- Chicago: I-90, I-94
- Philadelphia: I-95
- Dallas: U.S. 75
Prepare for travel to ramp up before the holiday, beginning Wednesday, August 27, and peaking Friday, August 29.
Data indicates the best time to travel is in the early morning hours between 7 and 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, and in the evening after 7 p.m. for Thursday departures and Tuesday returns.
The worst times to travel are expected to be in the afternoons between 3 and 7 p.m. from Wednesday through Tuesday
Roadside breakdowns surge after the holiday. While most travelers focus on the weekend itself, Allstate Roadside data shows the real trouble starts Tuesday, the day after Labor Day.
Breakdowns spike nearly 25 percent as Americans return to work and school, making it one of the most likely days of the summer to need roadside assistance.
“Allstate Roadside sees a surge in calls the day after Labor Day. It’s partly due to increased wear from holiday travel, but also from the fact that many repair shops are closed over the holiday weekend and the rush to get back to normal routines,” Dieringer said.
Top cities for roadside issues and vehicle breakdowns during Labor Day travel include: