TOWSON, MD (December 21, 2018) – Nationwide, AAA anticipates it will come to the rescue of more than 960,000 stranded motorists during the year-end holiday from December 22, 2018 and January 1, 2019, as over 102 million travelers are expected to take to the roads to get to their holiday destination.

AAA Mid-Atlantic anticipates it will come to the aid of approximately 62,000 stranded motorists throughout its five-state and Washington, D.C. territory, including over 15,000 motorists in Maryland, during the year-end holiday period. Dead batteries, flat tires, and lockouts will be the leading reasons motorists will experience car trouble.

“Becoming stranded on the roadway can quickly dampen your holiday spirit,” said Christine Sarames Delise, a spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic.  “Whether you are planning local day trips or long distance year-end holiday travel, having your vehicle properly maintained and prepared for the rigors of holiday driving will help ensure it gets you to your destination safely and without incident.”

AAA Mid-Atlantic recommends motorists take their vehicle to a trusted repair facility to perform any needed maintenance before heading out. Oil changes, fluid level checks, battery tests and tire inspections go a long way toward reducing the chances of a breakdown.

The auto club offers a free public service to help consumers find quality auto repair facilities that meet and maintain high professional standards for training, equipment, cleanliness and customer service. Motorists can either look for a AAA Car Care Center in their area or a AAA Approved Auto Repair sign at local auto repair facilities, or search for a nearby AAA Approved shop online at AAA.com/Repair. 

AAA Mid-Atlantic also reminds drivers not to leave home for their holiday trip without packing an emergency roadside kit. More than 40 percent of motorists do not carry an emergency kit in their vehicle, according to a AAA survey.

A well-stocked emergency kit includes a cell phone and car charger, flashlight with extra batteries, first-aid kit, basic toolkit with tire pressure gauge and adjustable wrench, windshield washer solution, jumper cables and emergency flares or reflectors, drinking water, extra snacks and food for travelers and pets. 

During the winter season, a warm blanket, extra gloves, hat, ice scraper, snow brush, a small shovel, and sand, kitty litter or traction mats are must have items for an emergency kit.

AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to over 59 million members nationwide and more than 975,000 members in Maryland.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  AAA is a non-stock, non-profit corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit AAA.com.

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