10 News spoke with Morgan Dean, Manager in Public and Government Affairs at AAA Club Alliance regarding the upcoming holiday travel season!

Oil prices climbed this week as unrest in the Middle East escalated.

As Tropical Storm Debby approaches, preparations are well underway across Southwest Virginia.

Consumers barely increased spending in May from April as still high inflation and high interest rates curbed spending.

In what had long been celebrated every May 30 to honor America’s fallen soldiers, Memorial Day officially became a federal holiday in 1971, observed on the last Monday in May.

AAA is warning travelers to plan for record-breaking crowds this holiday weekend.

From driving to flying, this Memorial Day weekend is set to be a busy one.

Severe weather swept through the region last night. 10 News received reports of damage to cars, particularly in the Hillsville area.

Both Roanoke and Virginia are on trend with the national increase in gas prices.

More pain at the pump, with gas prices on the rise.

The dreaded pothole season is upon and this year it came early.

AAA said only about six inches of water is enough to cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. They told us their biggest advice is to turn around and don’t drown.

Ringing in the new year is a fun celebration but it can be dangerous.

Conditions have been mostly nice for travelers flying ahead of and on Christmas Day, but some naughty disruptions plagued those flying with Southwest Airlines again this year.

With three days until Christmas, the holiday travel rush is in full swing, with millions of people heading out of town.

Holiday travel can be tricky, so we're working to help get you to your destination safely.

The rain and wind rolling in has the potential to cause slick roads and power outages.

Airports and highways are expected to be busier this Christmas season than they were a year ago.

Holiday travelers are starting their final sprint.

While 49 million holiday travelers are driving, more than 4.7 million will be flying - that’s the highest number of air travelers since 2005.

You may have seen signs on the roads that talk about putting your phone down while driving. That’s because it’s National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day.

AAA said gas prices are down more than 20 cents in the past month, but this doesn't mean the war might not impact prices in the near future.

AAA says drivers need to be extra careful before hitting the roads this weekend.

AAA expects more travelers on the road, reaching near pre-pandemic levels for the Labor Day weekend.

AAA says the average gas price in Virginia is $3.66

U.S. gas prices are continuing to rise — giving drivers across the country another headache at the pump.

Drivers are in for another headache at the pump as U.S. gas prices continue to rise.

Travelers, considered a bellwether for the insurance industry due to its size, said catastrophe losses doubled in its most recent quarter and the company swung to a loss as severe wind and hail storms in a number of regions led to rising coverage claims.

AAA says it won’t renew a small percentage of homeowner and auto insurance policies in hurricane-wracked Florida, joining other insurers in limiting their exposure in the Sunshine State.

AAA is warning drivers to expect to pay more at the pump.

AAA projects nearly 51 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home the Independence Day weekend, setting a new record for the holiday.

The law will now require drivers to change lanes or slow down for more vehicles on the side of the road.

According to data from Virginia State Police District Six, from January 2023 to April, five people out of the 15 who died in car crashes were not wearing a seatbelt.

AAA is warning those traveling to expect more drivers on the roads for the holiday weekend.

Memorial Day is supposed to be about mourning the nation’s fallen service members.

This year’s travel numbers are expected to hit all-time high. According to AAA, this Memorial Day weekend could be the busiest at airports since 2005.

On Monday, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles announced this year’s Click It or Ticket campaign, which they say is running through June 4.

If you are planning on fueling up before hitting the road for spring break and holiday travel, you will notice gas prices are going up.

Before hitting the road this holiday season, AAA has a checklist for you ensure your car is ready for a road trip this Winter.

The holiday travel rush is already on, and it could spread out over more days than usual this year.

Oil companies brought in staggering profits once again as consumers worldwide struggled with high gasoline and energy prices.

AAA gave some tips on how you can stay safe during the storm

Despite the storm coming to shore in Florida, there could be effects as it moves up the East coast.

According to AAA, this week’s current average of regular gas in Virginia is $3.56 while last week’s average was $3.64, about an eight-cent difference.

AAA expects Labor Day travel to bounce back to near pre-pandemic levels

Drivers said compared to higher gas prices earlier this summer, they’re finally able to save some money or use it elsewhere.

Exxon and GB on Main St. say they plan to keep the prices low for as long as possible.

The Federal Reserve is expected to make a decision Wednesday.

With gas prices rising, more and more people are finding themselves in need of assistance on the road.

Gas prices are hitting $5 a gallon, and they're showing no signs of letting up.

The nationwide average price for a gallon of gasoline in the U.S. has topped $5 for the first time ever.

Pandemic-weary U.S. residents are confronting high gas prices as they decide whether to travel this Memorial Day weekend.

The average price for a gallon of gas in the United States was $4.59 Tuesday, with it being slightly better in Virginia at $4.46 — both of which were all-time highs ahead of the Memorial Day Weekend.

Traveling soon? Have a long commute and just want to be in the loop on gas prices? We've got you covered.

Dr. Alice Kassens, Economics Professor at Roanoke College, says many factors are to blame for inflation and there is no clear end in sight, especially if you’re expected pre-pandemic prices.

The dollars-and-cents counter on the gas pump seems to be spinning faster these days with U.S. gasoline prices hitting another record high on Tuesday.

AAA will be celebrating Earth Day and Arbor Day this year with it Batteries for Trees campaign.

If you’ve been to the gas pumps lately, or even listened to any news outlet, you’re likely well aware that gas prices are at a painful high.

Bicycle service is a standard benefit for AAA members, with no extra cost.

That shatters the old record of $4.01, which was set back in 2008

Gasoline prices are setting a new record, and they're likely to go higher in the coming weeks.

With Russia intensifying its war on Ukraine, killing civilians and triggering a mass refugee crisis, President Joe Biden announced a U.S. ban on imported Russian oil.

The impact of Russia’s invasion on Ukraine can be felt in the U.S. as the oil market takes a hit, ultimately affecting national gas prices.

Nearly three million people across the Commonwealth are expected to travel this holiday season, according to AAA.

Millions of Americans are loading up their cars or piling onto planes, determined to reclaim Thanksgiving traditions that were put on pause last year by the pandemic.

As the economy continues to bounce back from the pandemic, we’re seeing a struggle with supply chain issues.

The Consumer Price Index climbed 5.4 percent in September compared to this time last year. Experts say the inflation is a result of supply chain issues and a demand from the pandemic.

If you’re taking off the tarmac or hitting the highway, experts say you need to book your holiday trip before Halloween.

Drivers continue to see soaring prices at the pump. The national average is $3.27, which is up seven cents from the week of Oct. 4. In Virginia, the average is $3.10. That’s up nine cents from the previous week.

USA Baseball on Friday announced the 24-man roster that will represent the United States on the diamond in Japan

As you get ready for that 4th of July trip, be prepared to pay more at the pump.

In just a matter of days, marijuana will be legal in the Commonwealth. Now, public safety officials are raising concerns about an increase in impaired driving.

There are some changes, for one your cruise ship won’t be at full capacity.

Teen driver deaths have more than doubled since last year.

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial kick-off to summer travel.

If you're traveling over the Memorial Day weekend, expect lots of company.

ROANOKE, Va. – Drivers are feeling the pressure at the pump as gas prices are on the rise, but not when it comes to travel. With refinery output at a record low and crude oil prices rising, Roanoke gas prices are 50 cents higher compared to last year. Though prices will continue to rise in the spring, 60% of the people AAA surveyed say they plan to travel in the next three months for leisure. A recent survey from Destination Analyst says 14% of people surveyed are going to travel for spring break. If you are traveling this spring break, you’re best bet is to head south as gas prices tend to be cheaper in that direction.

As predicted, AAA said more Americans stayed home this year; however, gas prices are rising in Virginia. In typical years, supply and demand would be the culprit of rising prices this time of year. Yet experts are suggesting a link between pump prices and the COVID-19 vaccine. It’s those prices for crude oil that are driving pump prices right now,” explained Morgan Dean, AAA spokesperson. To check gas prices in your area, click here.

Despite an uptick in coronavirus cases nationwide, people are still planning to travel to celebrate the upcoming holidays. “80 percent of all trips for this fall are going to be road trips, and that’s because the cars offer so much security to people,” says AAA’s Jeanette McGee. “You know who’s going to be with you.”If you are planning on traveling, experts say be prepared for crowds and be patient. “Days like Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, Sunday on the return, are going to be the busier days, both at the airports and on the roads,” warns travel expert Jeanenne Tornatore. Regardless of if, where and how you are traveling this holiday season, experts say to follow the three W’s: wear a mask, wait six feet apart and wash your hands.

ROANOKE, Va. Even if you dont have a child in school right now, as a driver its time to get into back to school mode. AAA says drivers usually go without seeing school buses for just three months, but this year for many its been six months. Since there arent as many kids using the bus, prepare to see more people walking and biking to school. So were urging drivers to be on the lookout, lookout for school buses lookout for more cars maybe lined up around schools than what you normally see in the past, said Morgan Dean with AAA Mid-Atlantic. It is the expect the unexpected year and theres a lot of questions about whats really going to happen this year.

(NBC News) - Millions of Americans are planning a last warm weather hurrah before the sun sets on summer. This year, AAA sees travelers opting for remote locations over cities, and driving instead of flying. Some areas that saw spikes after Memorial Day, like Oregons Multnomah County, are pleading with people to play it safe. Our ask of the public is to just find one way to take your plans down a notch in terms of risk, says Multnomah County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Vines. Under 10 is what people say and to wear masks when possible.And while many continue to avoid crowds, health experts say small gatherings can be risky as well.

If you decide to go on a road trip, AAA has an online feature called TripTik to make your trip during a pandemic less of a headache. Road trip essentials usually consist of a map, great snacks and some good music but this year you may want to revamp that list. AAA suggests before you fill your gas tank, put your hand in one of those sandwich bags then pump your gas. Below is a look at the differences in gas prices in our region according to AAA Mid-Atlantic region. Roanoke Gas Prices as of September 3, 2020-$2.08Up 2 cents from a week agoUp 13 cents from a month agoDown 24 cents over a year ago.

ROANOKE, Va. – After months of being cooped up in the house, families are looking for a change of scenery. People are overwhelmingly looking for vacations closer to home, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Smokey Mountains and beaches are top destinations as they’re locations where families can be outdoors and distance. Families are opting to rent houses and vacation properties from owners, according to travel experts. People are seeing their cars as an extension of their homes, a place they can control and a place they’re comfortable,” said Martha Meade with AAA Mid-Atlantic.

ROANOKE, Va. – A report from AAA suggests that travel for Memorial Day will be down due to the coronavirus pandemic, but AAA says it doesn’t expect that trend to last for long. For the first time in 20 years, AAA will not be releasing a Memorial Day travel forecast because the accuracy of the data used to compile that report has been undermined by COVID-19. According to AAA, online bookings have been modestly rising since mid-April, suggesting travelers are starting to feel more comfortable and confident about travel. The expected rebound in domestic trips is based off of trends AAA anticipated for summer before the pandemic ramped up. In March, a AAA survey found 90% of the 173 Americans who had summer vacations planned were set to go on US-based vacations.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images(CNN) - Gasoline prices have spiked in California, soaring well above what most Americans are paying at the pump. California's gas prices are the most expensive in the United States: The national average is currently $2.65 a gallon. Most motorists around the country are noticing gas prices declining or stabilizing, which is normal for autumn. Gas prices typically drop after the busy summer driving season, AAA said. More than other states, California gas prices can sometimes skyrocket, because the state mandates cleaner gas with fewer emissions.

You feel the car start to wobble, and the next thing you know -- you've got a flat tire. Sydney Glenn spoke to a man who did just that, and now his kindness is sending a message. That stems from a Facebook post shared hundreds of times, showing Chuck changing a woman's tire. That feeling of being hidden away is one Chuck knows. Ron spent more than two years on the streets, searching for the same thing Chuck does every night.

If you want to arrive before the holiday, flying on Monday is the best choice. It has the lowest average ticket price ($486) prior to the holiday. Actually flying on the holiday offers the lowest average price per ticket ($454) while the Tuesday ($521) and Wednesday ($527) before the holiday are pricey and the heaviest air travel days, AAA says. While you're booking Thanksgiving travel, you may as well book for Christmas and New Year's. Sign up for alertsJust like the rest of the year, many fares fluctuate during the run up to the holiday travel season, says Tracy Stewart, editor at airfare deal site Airfarewatchdog.com.

Crude oil prices are rising after attacks on oil fields in Saudi Arabia over the weekend. Gas prices probably won't climb high enough to substantially hurt the US economy. The sudden jump in oil prices above $60 a barrel means gas prices are expected to start rising within a few days, she said. Spike in gas prices at end of year is uncommonAny increase in gas prices at this time of the year is relatively uncommon, according to Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy, a firm that has an app that helps people track gas prices at individual stations in real time. So far, oil prices and by extension gas prices remain at reasonable levels.

Road rage has been on the rise for years. "So, folks are sacrificing sleep in order to get things done, which only exacerbates the likelihood that somebody will experience a road rage incident." Preventing road rageThe best way to survive road rage is to keep it from happening in the first place. All you are doing if you react with your children in the vehicle is training them in road rage; not great parenting." If you find yourself the victim of a road rage incident, here are some key steps to take:Don't reactAvoid any escalation of the conflict.

SALEM, Va. - This Labor Day weekend will not be much of a pain at the gas pump. The average gas price per gallon for Labor Day weekend is $2.58 according to AAA, compared to $2.83 last Labor Day weekend. Additionally, Virginia's average price per gallon is $2.33, the lowest Labor Day weekend gas prices in three years. The low gas prices could encourage more people to drive for a Labor Day weekend getaway. She said she noticed gas prices in her home state of South Carolina were low and wanted to take advantage of them while she could.

AAA said the number of people dying in red light crashes has hit an alarming level, a 10-year high in Virginia. From Jan 1, 2018 to Aug 29, 2018, Roanoke City Police issued 224 tickets to people running red lights in Roanoke City. "We are definitely seeing that red light running is a dangerous problem across the country," said Tamra Johnson, of AAA. In the past 10 years (2008-2017), 108 deaths resulted from red light running crashes in the Virginia. Per capita, Arizona has the highest rate of red light running fatalities while New Hampshire has the lowest rate.

Deaths caused by drivers running red lights hit their highest rate in 10 years, according to a new report from AAA. (CNN) - Deaths caused by drivers running red lights hit their highest rate in 10 years, according to a new report from AAA. It's a problem that can be curbed with red light cameras, Kolosh said, which reduced red light violations by 40% in a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The cameras photograph vehicles that run red lights, which police can review to decide whether to ticket them. Speeding, however, continues to be the most common cause of car deaths caused by improper driving.

According to AAA, gas demand has reached an all-time high. Distributed by LAKANA. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.