COLUMBUS, Ohio — You may be one of the many people hitting the road to get a good look at the total solar eclipse on Monday. AAA said to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared.
AAA is getting ready to see traffic jams and said you should prepare for it because a few spots in central Ohio are perfect to look at the total eclipse. Many people are expected to arrive the weekend ahead of the spectacular event. Because of this, AAA is planning to see a lot of car problems.
AAA is treating Monday like a snow event and will have every available truck ready to respond. AAA public and government affairs manager Kara Hitchens said to avoid needing to call for help make sure you are road-ready with a full tank and get your car serviced.
Also, don't take your eyes off the road to look at the eclipse because this is considered driving distracted.
"We recommend making a plan for the day, Hitchens said. "If you're going to go out and view the eclipse know where you're going to go, have a plan as to where you're going to go and get to that spot, park, not on the side of the road, not on the side of the highway, park off the road."
During the eclipse, the moon will completely block the sun and it will get dark. Drivers may need to turn on their headlights if they're not automatic so you can see and be seen.
Travelers are also being urged to arrive early and stay late to avoid the heaviest traffic.
Hitchens said, "The central Ohio area has a lot of great things you can take part in and view so make it another day and enjoy the time while everyone else leaves, you can safely leave"
AAA also recommends you have a travel plan which includes knowing where you're going to view the eclipse and park. They want you to avoid parking on the side of the road or highway which can interrupt traffic.