National Road Trip Day History

National Road Trip Day became a holiday in 2019 because of Pilot Flying J. Pilot Flying J is currently the largest travel center operator in North America. They chose the last Monday in May as the day for the holiday because it marks the start of summer in North America and offers most people a long weekend. Travel stories are woven into America’s very fabric and it makes sense to observe a day that celebrates that part of our country’s history.

National Road Trip Day Origins

There’s a reason why “The Great American Road Trip” is a catchphrase. The U.S. is the one country where road trips count as a holiday in themselves. Whether it’s to pay tribute to fallen heroes by visiting war memorials across the country, or an excuse to get out of town and have a change of scenery; road trips are loved by Americans throughout the country.

The first recorded road trip across the U.S. began in 1903 with a bet. Someone bet Horatio Nelson Jackson (a physician and automobile pioneer) that he could not travel from San Francisco to New York City in less than 90 days. Accompanied by mechanic Sewall K. Crocker, and a dog named Bud, they set off in a 20-horsepower Winston to prove them wrong. Despite numerous mishaps, Jackson and Crocker completed the trip in 63 days.

Alaska Driver Safety Tips

If you are planning to explore Alaska on National Road Trip Day or anytime this summer, keep these driver safety tips in mind:

• Plan Ahead – Alaskan Road trips require planning. Plot your course. Consider construction, fuel and snack stops before taking off.
• Service Your Vehicle – Vehicle maintenance is a vital part of any successful road trip. Therefore, ensuring your vehicle’s oil has been changed recently and its tires are rotated are key. In addition, make sure your wipers are in good working order and your wiper fluid is full. Check to make sure all your vehicle’s lights and signals are working. Check the condition of your brake pads. Make sure your vehicle registration is current.
• Take your time and enjoy National Road Trip Day – There’s plenty of time to get to your Alaska destination.

After all, the goal of any road trip through Alaska- including those on National Road Trip Day – is that all Alaskans arrive at the destination not only happily, but safely as well.

Whether taking a road trip, spending the day with family and friends, or commemorating quietly at home, we at Johnson Law wish Alaska a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend celebration. If you are seriously injured in a car accident, boat accident, or any accident caused by another person, please contact an experienced Alaska Personal Injury Attorney. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Info Source: National Today

Photo Source: Bearfoot Theory