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-Editorial
The recent global software outage that wreaked havoc on flight schedules has prompted many Californians to reconsider their summer travel plans. A survey conducted by Gunther Mazda reveals that 84% of respondents are now more inclined to drive to their vacation destinations rather than risk further disruptions with air travel.
The widespread flight delays and cancellations caused by the outage left thousands stranded at airports, with overwhelmed gate agents and hours-long hold times on customer service lines exacerbating the situation. As airlines struggled to restore their systems, many travelers faced mounting frustration and uncertainty.
To gauge the impact on travel preferences, Gunther Mazda surveyed 3,000 domestic travelers. The findings show that Californians are willing to drive an average of 9 hours and 38 minutes to reach their vacation spots. For those opting for road trips, 58% plan to stay in hotels, 14% in motels, 12% in vacation rentals like Airbnb, 8% at campsites, and 8% with friends.
Long drives are also prompting travelers to adopt strategies for staying alert. The survey found that 38% will rely on caffeinated drinks, while 36% prefer taking frequent breaks. Other methods include driving in shifts with a partner (14%), listening to audiobooks or podcasts (8%), and napping at rest stops (4%).
When it comes to accommodations, nearly a third (30%) of respondents favor cozy bed and breakfasts, 26% prefer rustic cabins and lodges, and 20% opt for luxury hotels. Only 6% plan to camp or sleep in their cars.
Gunther Mazda also posed a light-hearted question about ideal road trip themes. The majority (40%) chose nature expeditions, while 32% preferred historical journeys, 22% opted for culinary tours, and 6% wanted pop culture pilgrimages.
Joe Gunther IV of Gunther Mazda advises travelers to prioritize safety during their road trips: “Fatigue can impair reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents. We urge travelers to plan for frequent breaks, share driving responsibilities, and ensure adequate rest to make their journeys both safe and enjoyable.”
But going on the road also has risks involved. A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals the COVID-19 pandemic’s severe impact on traffic safety in the United States. The research highlights a troubling rise in fatal crashes from May 2020 through December 2022, with a 17% increase in traffic deaths compared to pre-pandemic levels. This surge is attributed to dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, and a lack of seatbelt use. Notably, Black and Hispanic Americans experienced disproportionately high increases in fatalities, exacerbating pre-existing disparities. Lower educational attainment is also correlated with a sharper rise in traffic deaths compared to college graduates.
Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for equitable transportation solutions and holistic safety approaches. The study underscores that late-night and early-morning driving saw the most significant spikes in fatalities, challenging previous assumptions about pandemic-era traffic patterns. AAA is collaborating with the National Transportation Safety Board to focus on improving safety in underserved communities through a Safe System approach, addressing broader traffic safety issues and targeting resources where they are needed most.
