Not only will drivers see holiday travel with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but there will also be thousands heading to Washington D.C. for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
DeMayo Law analyzed National Safety Council (NSC) data to create a study to help drivers on their way to the inauguration safely and efficiently.
“Smart planning is essential for safe travel. By knowing when to leave and preparing thoroughly, drivers can avoid risks and focus on what matters most—family and friends,” a spokesperson for DeMayo Law said. “Driving can be hectic, but the right decisions can save lives. Our insights help drivers minimize risks and navigate the busiest travel times safely.”
For those traveling to D.C. from Florida, here’s what you should know ahead of the holiday weekend.
When is Inauguration Day?
First lady Melania Trump channeled the style of former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, 2017, wearing a sky-blue cashmere dress designed by Ralph Lauren with matching heels and suede gloves.
Inauguration Day, when Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn into office, is Monday, Jan. 20, which is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
When are the best and worst times to travel to Washington, D.C.?
Here are DeMayo Law’s findings:
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Most popular travel time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Heavy traffic on key highways; delays are likely.
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Best time to travel: before 10 a.m. Quieter roads and faster, safer commutes.
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Worst time to travel: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Increased risks of distracted, fatigued, or impaired driving.
What will be the main travel route to Washington, D.C. from Florida
For travelers from the South, drivers typically use I-95 North, with traffic hotspots in Northern Virginia, particularly around Fredericksburg and Alexandria.
They recommend avoiding peak hours in Northern Virginia and driving carefully during construction.
Know before you go: Additional safety tips for driving to Washington, D.C.
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Inspect your vehicle: Check tires, brakes, fluids, and lights before starting your trip.
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Plan rest stops: Stop every two hours or 100 miles to avoid fatigue.
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Carry an emergency kit: Include water, blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit.
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Avoid distractions: Focus fully on the road and avoid using your phone while driving.
When does the inauguration start? See the schedule of events
The swearing-in ceremony will begin at noon; however, there are multiple events in the days beforehand that could exacerbate traffic.
Inauguration events are planned by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCIC) and include the swearing-in, inaugural address and pass-in review. Other events surrounding the inauguration include an inaugural parade and inaugural balls.
Here is a full rundown of Inauguration Day:
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Inauguration Day: See tips for driving to Washington D.C. from Florida