Gas prices continue falling

Thanksgiving Travel Expected to Rise

Published On: Nov 19 2012 06:54:51 PM CST   Updated On: Nov 19 2012 09:04:06 PM CST
SHREVEPORT, La. -

Americans are giving thanks for lower fuel prices this holiday week.

A dramatic drop in gas prices should help holiday travel. The national average has declined 35 cents per gallon in the last month. AAA expects further declines through the holiday, although the price of gas on Thanksgiving Day should be close to last year's record of $3.32 per gallon.

AAA says Tuesday in its annual Thanksgiving forecast that a stronger economy is needed to spur a bigger jump in holiday travel growth. AAA predicts 43.6 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over Thanksgiving, up just 0.7 percent from last year.

Officials with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) urge motorists to use extra caution while traveling this holiday season.

"Travelers need to be aware of those extra motorists on the roadways, as well as any construction zones," said Susan Stafford, spokesperson for LADOTD. "We do have a lot of construction projects that are going on right now."

  • Copyright 2012 KTBS. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved.

    This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.