Tips for traveling this weekend

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) - A lot of people think of this weekend as the start of summer travel.  Getting ready to leave for the Memorial Day weekend?  We've put together a few things for you to know.

AAA says 9 out of 10 holiday travelers will be on the road.

The AAA Fuel Gauge Report says the average price of regular gas in Hampton Roads is currently $3.50.  That is a high price, but not as high as last year.  One year ago, AAA says the average price for regular gas was $3.79.  Across Virginia, AAA says the average price is $3.48.
     
"The gas being $3.73 cents here at WAWA, we decided it would just be cheaper for the family just to visit us this time," said  Dujane Brooks, who said he's staying at home in Hampton Roads for the weekend.

Virginia Peterson felt different about the prices.  She thinks people will still travel.

"I think people are going to start traveling more because the prices have gone down," said Peterson.  "But, a lot of people stay home for barbeques and things like that for the holiday."

AAA also says the number of people traveling by air this weekend will decrease on a national and state level.

Memorial Day special coverage on WAVY.com

Police will also be active this weekend.  Virginia State Police say buckle up and slow down because they are out in full force for Operation C.A.R.E., which stands for, "Operation, Combined Accident Reduction Effort."

State police say they're going to be looking for people speeding, driving while impaired, and not using seatbelts.

Cities like Newport News will also focus on keeping impaired drivers off the road.  Police says they're stepping up their DUI efforts.  

Newport News police say they will be out there every night this weekend from 9 p.m. until 3 a.m.  They say they're going to be where they expect people to be drinking and using drugs.