Indianapolis, IN – Hoosiers planning Christmas travel should expect heavier traffic statewide starting Saturday as millions take to the roads for the holiday, according to AAA and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT).
According to AAA, at least 109 million people are expected to travel nationwide for Christmas this year, including more than 2.5 million travelers from Indiana. INDOT says traffic volumes will increase as early as Saturday, December 20, with congestion likely through the weekend following Christmas.
“Motorists should expect increased traffic and potential delays as early as this weekend for holiday travel,” said INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist. While weather conditions are currently favorable, INDOT urges drivers to plan ahead, remain patient, and allow extra travel time.
AAA identifies the busiest travel days as Saturday, December 20, and the post-holiday stretch from Friday, December 26, through Sunday, December 28, with peak congestion expected between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. each day. Most construction-related traffic restrictions will be paused, aside from long-term projects already in place.
Drivers can check real-time road conditions, closures, and traffic cameras by visiting 511in.org or using the INDOT TrafficWise app.
Safety remains a major focus during the holiday travel period. INDOT’s Buckle Up Phone Down campaign highlights that while fewer than seven percent of Indiana drivers do not wear seatbelts, they account for 45% of passenger vehicle fatalities. Texting while driving increases crash risk by 50%.
December is also National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Federal data shows more than 4,900 people died nationwide in drunk-driving crashes during December from 2019 to 2023. INDOT urges drivers to plan for sober rides using rideshares, designated drivers, or public transit.
INDOT’s Hoosier Helper Safety Service Patrol, sponsored by GEICO, will be active across 177 miles of Indiana interstates, providing roadside assistance and crash response. Motorists needing help can call 855-INDOT4U.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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