It's been six years since Louisiana drivers have seen gas prices this high over the Independence Day weekend. In 2008 the average price for a gallon of gasoline in Louisiana was close to $4 dollars a gallon.

That makes the current average price of $3.50 a gallon seem a little easier to swallow. But just because the price of gas is a little higher than we've seen the last few years, that doesn't mean we won't be hitting the road this long holiday weekend.

The American Automobile Association expects 41 million Americans will buckle up and take a drive for the Fourth of July. While many surveyed say they won't be traveling nearly as far as they may have traveled in previous years, it will still mean a lot of people on the roads.

"People are maybe changing their plans as far as not traveling as far or staying as long, perhaps brown bagging it, filling the ice chest with some snacks, instead of dining in a restaurant. They want to get out though for this independence day"

AAA Spokesperson Don Redman told the Louisiana Radio Network in a report published yesterday.

Most travel experts agree that the Fourth falling on a Friday will contribute to the heavier than usual traffic. Since it is a three day weekend you can expect Interstates 10 and 49 to be full of vehicles during the peak travel times. Local motorists are encouraged to use back roads and short cuts to avoid the clutter and confusion of congested interstates during peak driving times.

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