Want to hear a scary story? More vandalism claims are filed on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute.
While most of the goblins and ghouls you’ll see on Halloween are out looking for treats, tricksters are also known to roam the streets in search of mischief.
Small pranks like smashing pumpkins and toilet papering are common, but bigger crimes, including broken windows, kicked-in doors and even stolen vehicles have been reported to spike on Halloween.
Don’t let the fear of Halloween mischief haunt you this year. Follow these tips to take some of the fright out of Halloween night.
Keeping Your Property Safe on Halloween
Prepare for pranksters. To avoid having your car vandalized or stolen, park in a secure, well-lit area with your windows up and doors locked. And if you’re hosting a party, make sure your home’s location is not included on social media as it will tip off unwanted guests.
Keep an eye out for Wolverine and Wonder Woman. Drive slowly and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to make it easier to see and be seen by children.
Light up the night. Ample lighting outside of your home will help keep the creeps away and provide safe passage to party guests and trick-or-treaters. Keep paths clear to prevent slips.
Follow safe pumpkin protocol. Keep lit jack-o-lanterns, candles, matches and lighters out of children’s reach. Use flameless candles when possible.
Beware the brew. Hosting a grown-up party? Keep an eye on your guests and make sure you have plenty of nonalcoholic beverages and snacks on hand.
What Insurance Covers
Most homeowners, renters and auto insurance policies will provide coverage for these Halloween-related mishaps, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
Before the tricking-or-treating festivities begin, reach out to your insurance agent to learn about your coverage limits and to make sure your insurance policies are up-to-date.
Vandalism
Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies will provide coverage for vandalism. If your car is vandalized, the optional comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy covers damages.
Fire
Always play it safe with open flames. Use flameless candles when possible and keep lit jack-o-lanterns out of the reach of kids and pets. If a Halloween decoration causes a fire and damages your property, your homeowners or renters policy will cover fire-related losses, up to policy limits.
Injury
You may be covered under the liability portion of your homeowners or renters insurance policy – up to specified limits – in the event that someone is injured on your property. A standard policy also includes no-fault medical coverage – up to specified limits – that allows the injured person to file their claim directly with your insurance company.
Wishing you a Halloween filled with more treats than tricks!
For the perfect blend of country living, outdoor adventure and culture, come to Westchester County, New York. Spanning 500 square miles, this vibrant region boasts vast parks, working farms and rugged mountain trails, alongside a thriving arts community, engaging museums and a diverse food scene.
A perfect fall destination (it is the home of Sleepy Hollow, after all), everything you love about the season is here, from apple and pumpkin picking to scenic hikes and spooky sites.
To truly appreciate the beautiful scenery and foliage displays, take a hike or a bike ride along some the country’s most extraordinary scenic trail systems.
Westchester County boasts 24,000 acres of parkland. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is Westchester’s biggest park, encompassing more than 4,000 acres including 35 acres of wooded trails. Other locations where you can enjoy the outdoors include Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining, Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale, Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary in Rye, Rockefeller State Park in Pleasantville and the Scenic Hudson RiverWalk in Tarrytown.
For those looking for a challenge, take on the 2.6-mile hike to Anthony’s Nose.The trail takes about 3.5 hours to conquer uphill, though once you reach the peak you are awarded with a panoramic view of the Hudson River unlike any other.
Get a taste of farm life while enjoying the colorful fall foliage. Follow the 17-mile Westchester Farm Trail and enjoy hands-on experiences such as making maple syrup and, of course, apple picking.
Be sure to stop by Stuart’s Farm in Granite Springs, the oldest apple orchard in Westchester County, operating as a fruit farm since 1828. Visitors can pick 20 varieties of apples, stock up on apple treats like pies and doughnuts and take a hayride around the orchard on weekends.
Pick apples and pumpkins and enjoy dishes made from the fruits, vegetables and livestock raised at the family-owned Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard in North Salem. The store has a variety of home-grown items, and the farm hosts music and other events throughout the year.
At the Alfred B. DelBello Muscoot Farm Park in Katonah, families can visit animals and tour historic buildings, including a farm museum. Educational events are offered throughout the year.
Lighthouses, Jack O’Lanterns, Cemeteries, Oh My!
Looking for interesting new places to explore? The newly refurbished Tarrytown Lighthouse in Sleepy Hollow, built in 1883, is open for free guided tours. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the lighthouse was critical to the safety of Hudson River ships during its almost 80 years of operation.
At night, wander through a display of more than 7,000 grinning, glowing jack o’ lanterns at The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, happening at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson through Nov. 16.
And nothing says spooky season like a visit to Sleepy Hollow, the setting of one of author Washington Irving’s most famous stories, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Stop by the Old Dutch Church featured in the story and explore Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the final resting place of Irving and other famous figures, including Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler and Elizabeth Arden.
To mark National Pedestrian Safety Month, AAA Northeast is highlighting the importance of safe driving to reduce the staggering number of pedestrian deaths and injuries in traffic collisions each year across the U.S.
In 2024, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in U.S. traffic crashes in 2024, down 4.3% from 2023, according to preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). While a decline in pedestrian deaths for a second consecutive year is encouraging, the number of pedestrians killed in 2024 is still 11.5% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019, when 6,412 pedestrians died.
In Connecticut, a AAA Northeast analysis of data from the Connecticut Crash Data Repository found a similar trend: Fewer pedestrians died in crashes for a second consecutive year. There were 46 pedestrian deaths in 2024, down from 51 deaths in 2023 and 74 deaths in 2022. Still, the number of pedestrian deaths from 2019 to 2024 (339) accounted for nearly 19% of all traffic fatalities during that period (1,805).
Unfortunately, the numbers are trending upward in Massachusetts. GHSA estimated that 78 pedestrians died in crashes in 2024, up 16% from 2023.
In New York, 307 pedestrians died in crashes in 2024, down 3% from 2023, according to GHSA estimates.
The numbers are trending upward in New Jersey. GHSA estimated that 223 pedestrians died in crashes in 2024, up 30% from 2023.
In Rhode Island, 12 pedestrians died in crashes in 2024, according to GHSA. The same number of people died in 2023.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that alcohol is a significant factor in pedestrian deaths: 46% of all fatal pedestrian crashes in 2023 involved a driver and/or pedestrian with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.01 or higher. Additionally, the majority of pedestrian fatalities occurred in the dark (77%) and nearly 1 out of every 4 (24%) pedestrians were killed by hit-and-run drivers.
Speed also plays a major role. The average risk of death is 10% for a pedestrian struck at an impact speed of 23 mph, increasing to 25% at 32 mph, 50% at 42 mph, 75% at 50 mph and 90% at 58 mph, according to AAA research. Risks vary significantly by age and by type of vehicle, which is especially relevant as SUVs continue to rise in popularity and become larger and more powerful.
“Walking should be a safe and easy way to get around town, but on average, a pedestrian is killed every 72 minutes and injured every 8 minutes across the country,” said Lauren Fabrizi, spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “To ensure pedestrians get to their destinations safely, drivers should ditch the distractions, slow down near crosswalks and never get behind the wheel impaired.”
AAA offers the following tips to keep pedestrians safe.
Safety tips for drivers
Look out for pedestrians at all times.
Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as at night or in bad weather.
Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or approaching a crosswalk.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Stop well back from the crosswalk to help other drivers see the pedestrians.
Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing out of your sight.
Follow the speed limit, especially near people on the street and in school zones.
Be extra cautious when backing up and look for pedestrians.
Never drive distracted or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Safety tips for pedestrians
Follow the rules of the road and obey all traffic signs and signals.
Walk on sidewalks, if available. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions.
If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely. Continue watching for traffic as you cross.
Make eye contact with drivers to indicate your next move.
Don’t cross between parked cars.
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
Be visible: Wear bright-colored clothing. At night, wear a reflective vest or reflective tape and carry a flashlight.
AAA Northeast is a not-for-profit auto club with offices in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire and New York, providing nearly 6.8 million local
AAA members with travel, insurance, financial and auto-related services.
Halloween is right around the corner, and attractions everywhere are getting ready to scare your socks off. If you’re looking for a local haunt to visit this spooky season, check out the scary (and not-so-scary) thrills waiting at these theme parks that offer discounts for AAA members.
Six Flags Fright Fest
Looking for scares close to home? Fright Fest is coming back to Six Flags locations, bigger and spookier than ever! During the day, you can experience family-friendly shows and attractions, but as soon as the sun goes down, the nightmare begins. Enter Fright Fest’s spine-tingling scare zones, explore haunted houses and experience a range of other haunted attractions. Fright Fest will be terrifying guests at different Six Flags parks on select dates throughout the Halloween season. Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey will hold their Fright Fest from Sept. 13 – Nov. 3. Six Flags New England in Massachusetts will hold their Fright Fest from Sept. 21 – Nov. 3.
Build Halloween memories like none other at LEGOLAND New York Resort’s Brick-or-Treat event. Spooky fun takes over the park, with kid-friendly Halloween activities, live entertainment and sweet treats galore. This festive celebration is included with your regular admission. You can even see special Halloween-themed LEGO builds. The events runs on select nights Oct. 3 – Oct. 27.
If you’re a true horror fan, don’t miss this haunt. Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is the gold standard for theme park haunts – and it’s not for scaredy-cats. At Halloween Horror Nights, you can find immersive haunted houses, heart-pounding scare zones, live entertainment and select park attractions. This year, you’ll find scares themed after Fallout, Terrifier, Five Nights at Freddy’s and more. This haunt is not for younger guests, and it’s not recommended to bring children under the age of 13. The scares are just a little too intense. Scream your heart out on select nights from Sept. 5 – Nov. 3.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is getting creepy with their killer Howl-O-Scream event. Guests can experience five haunted houses, four scare zones, four live shows, two party zones and more. This bone-chiller features brand new haunted houses, scare zones and shows, so even longtime fans will find something new to keep them up at night. Younger guests can visit for trick-or-treating during the day, when Busch Gardens holds their Sesame Street Halloween Spooktacular. Howl-O-Scream is held on select nights from Sept. 6 – Nov 3. Be there, but beware! This event is not suitable for small children.
If you’re headed to one of these spooky events, remember to save with AAA Tickets. You can get savings of up to 40% at concerts, theme parks, virtual events, museums, attractions and more! Go to AAA.com/Tickets for exclusive tickets and savings.
What are your favorite theme park haunts? Have you been to any of the above haunts before? Let us know in the comments below – we’re dying to hear from you.
Ghouls just want to have fun! See how many spooky words you can fill in!
If you’re looking for more fun, celebrate spooky season at these theme park haunts.
Since our members are the root of everything we do, your feedback is important to us. Let us know if you run into any issues while playing, or share your ideas for future puzzles by emailing us.
Seasonal Trends Driving Lower Northeast Gas Prices
The price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline keeps got cheaper last week across the Northeast as seasonal trends — and the expectation for more supply than demand in the second half of the year — takes hold of oil and gas markets.
As gasoline demand fell 440,000 barrels a day to 8.5 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), domestic supplies of both crude oil and gasoline climbed by 1.8 million and 4.1 million barrels a day, respectively. The drop in gasoline demand was in line with expectations for this time of year but still led to the second-lowest weekly demand figure since the end of May.
The increase in inventories of both crude and gasoline came as domestic refiners appear to be entering fall maintenance season: refinery utilization fell from 93 to 91.4 percent of capacity last week, according to the EIA. Gasoline production dipped 363,000 barrels a day to 9.34 million barrels a day, which was more than enough to meet demand. Here in the Northeast, inventories of gasoline ticked up by 1.6 million barrels.
Oil and gas prices face additional pressure on expectations of a global oil oversupply later this year. OPEC and allied producers on Sunday agreed to yet another production increase in November, this time by 137,000 barrels a day. Since April, the cartel has rolled back more than 2.2 million barrels a day of production cuts dating back to 2023.
“Thanks to lower gasoline demand, it’s unlikely that seasonal refinery maintenance will lead to higher gas prices this year, even if production slows in the short term,” said Mark Schieldrop, senior spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “Even as production has dipped, supplies have climbed.”
AAA Northeast’s Oct. 8 survey of fuel prices found the current national average down 5 cents from last week ($3.16), averaging $3.11 per gallon. Today’s national average price is 8 cents lower than a month ago ($3.19) and 7 cents lower than this day last year ($3.18).
Today, Oklahoma and Mississippi have the lowest prices in the nation at $2.58 and $2.67, respectively. California and Washington hold the highest prices in the nation this week at $4.66 and $4.50, respectively.
The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.
We know that we should take our vehicle for regular maintenance. But what if something goes wrong in between your regularly scheduled visits? How do you know when it’s time to see the mechanic?
One way to know if your car needs attention is when the check engine light or other important dashboard lights turn on while driving. Think of these lights like a traffic signal — green, all is fine; yellow, needs attention soon; and red, stop immediately before serious damage happens.
But there are other indicators that something is amiss and readily apparent if you keep your eyes, ears and nose open. Here’s are a few clear signs that your car needs maintenance.
Signs Your Car Battery Is Dying
Dim headlights: If the engine is off and you turn on the headlights and they are dim, the battery may not have the proper voltage to power lights and other accessories. This could be due to poor connections, a faulty alternator or a battery at the end of its life.
A bad smell: A leaking battery will expel hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs. This is caused by an alternator that is overcharging the battery. Over time, the battery will fail.
Corrosion: One the most common issues with difficulty starting and battery performance is corrosion. This is a blue-green, powdery substance around the battery cables where they connect to the battery.
Swelling: A battery that is swollen has frozen due to insufficient charging. If your car’s battery is swollen, replace it.
Clicking sound: This clicking sound when you turn on your ignition is often the result of the starter getting insufficient power from the battery.
Sluggish crank: A slow-cranking engine could mean your battery is weakening.
AAA will come to you to wherever you are to test and replace your battery if needed. Learn more about AAA Battery Service.
Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment
Crooked steering wheel/car pulling: If you’re not turning, your steering wheel should sit pretty close to perfectly straight without much effort. If, however, your steering wheel and vehicle pull significantly to the left or right when driving straight it’s a sign your car needs an alignment.
Abnormal tire wear: Tires should wear evenly across the tread. All four of your tires should also be wearing down evenly. Any inconsistencies could be the result of a misalignment or worn suspension parts.
Vibrating steering wheel: Tires that are out of balance or wheels that are damaged can cause the steering wheel to shake. A low-speed wobble can be a result of a badly worn tire or bent wheel. A vibration at higher speeds generally is an indication the tires need balancing.
Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change
Old oil: Oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine, keeping things running smoothly. Old oil won’t do its job and can cause excessive engine wear and sludge build up in the engine. It is important to check the engine oil periodically, top off as needed and change it as recommended in the vehicle owner’s manual.
Color and consistency changes: While you are checking your oil levels, take a look at the fluid’s color and texture. The oil should be a translucent, yellowish-brown color. If it’s very dark or thick and gooey, it’s been running through your engine too long and needs to be replaced.
Exhaust smoke: Some translucent emissions from your exhaust pipe is normal, but smoke is not. This is a clear indicator your car may need repairs.
Oil Smell: The smell of oil could mean an oil leak.
Temperature gauge: A temperature gauge clinging to the “H” end is the clearest sign your car is overheating.
Steam: If your engine overheats, it could exceed the boiling point of your radiator fluid. This will turn the fluid into vapor, resulting in a cloud of steam emanating from under the hood.
Reduced engine power: Overheating can cause the engine to slow down and seize up. If you see steam or the “hot” light on, pull over, stop, shut the car off and let it cool.
Unusual smell: An overheated engine will give off a hot, burning smell and/or a sickly sweet odor. This is the smell of coolant, which will become noticeable if there is a leak. This same sweet smell could also be the result of a leaking heater core, which warms the cabin.
More Signs Your Car Needs Maintenance: Smells and Sounds
Must, mildew or mold: This smell is the result of a water leak, possibly from the windshield or one of the windows. The water buildup could also be due to one or more of the car’s drains being clogged and not allowing water to drain naturally.
Burnt toast: This could be a sign of burning insulation, which often happens if there’s an electrical short in your car.
High-pitched squeal when braking: Worn down brake pads are difficult to notice on your own. Brake wear indicators are designed to make a high-pitched noise and get your attention when the pads are getting too thin.
Tapping or pinging when accelerating: This one could be as simple as using fuel with a lower octane than recommended. If the sound remains after swapping fuels, it could signify a problem with the engine ignition timing, excessive carbon buildup or a malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation valve.
Clunking over bumps: A heavy clunk when you go over rough road surfaces or bumps is a sign your suspension system needs attention.
Squealing when you turn the wheel: A worn-out or lose power steering belt can cause squealing when you turn the wheel. A growling noise could be a power steering pump that is low on fluid.
If you notice any of these signs your car needs maintenance, find a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you. With savings up to $75 per visit on labor, it’s a service that essentially pays for your membership.
For answers to more of your car questions, check out our Ask a Mechanic series.
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
The only thing better than going to see your favorite team play is making a weekend out of it, complete with a comfy place to chill before the game and after the victory.
Whether you’re headed to a football game this winter or getting ready for the 2026 soccer tournament this summer, secure your stay at hotels near stadiums across the East Coast with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. There are options for every game plan and budget, including hotels with free breakfast, pools, parking and restaurants, all within close reach to the action. Plus, AAA members get a discount.
Just a seven-minute drive (without traffic) to the home of the NFL’s New York Jets and Giants, this hotel offers a fitness center, free breakfast buffet and indoor pool, plus free parking and Wi-Fi. Other attractions in the area include Westfield Garden State Plaza and American Dream mall and Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Extend your stay and spend time in New York City, which is just 14 miles away.
Take advantage of the free breakfast and an outdoor pool as well as paid parking and airport shuttle service. Located about 30 minutes from Gillette Stadium and 30 minutes from Boston, leave yourself time to explore the city before or after the game.
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
One of the highlights of this spacious hotel is the rooftop pool, if you visit during warm weather. Besides that, enjoy a hot breakfast and unwind and dine at the on-site restaurant and bar. Just five miles from Lincoln Financial Field, guests also have easy access to Independence National Park, Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House.
Perfect for sports fans looking for convenience, this AAA Three Diamond hotel is only about 10 minutes from Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Its central location in the heart of Atlanta also gets you close to top attractions like the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Amenities include a heated courtyard pool, fitness center and a variety of on-site dining options, making it both a comfortable and easily accessible choice for your stay in the city.
If you are in town for a game and want to be closer to the beach, you might want to stick around for a few days to enjoy everything this beachfront hotel and Miami have to offer. Start your day with a full breakfast, then spend some time relaxing by the pool. Full beach service includes lounge chairs and umbrellas on the sand. You can also work out at the fitness center, check out the spa and explore the hotel shops. It’s all about fun in the sun at this cool property which is 20 miles from the stadium.
Railbiking is popping up everywhere. This four-wheeled open-air activity on abandoned railroad tracks or tracks set aside for heritage rail service is gaining steam (pun intended). This pedal-powered activity is one that most anyone can do and that rewards fun-loving riders with sensational views across glistening lakes, verdant forests, rolling pastures and sandy shorelines.
Railbikes have a side-by-side recumbent style design with foot pedals and a handbrake. Some even have eco-friendly electric pedal-assist capabilities. There’s no need to think about steering or balancing with a railbike. All you need to do is pedal. This way you can be hands-free and able to take all the photos you like of picturesque landscapes as you glide across the railway tracks.
Railbiking is a low-impact exercise. It’s also just right for children and adults, as well as those of different fitness levels. An average railbike ride may cover 3 to 10 miles. Some rides are longer, up to 25 miles, and may tack on extras, like pumpkin picking or river tubing.
Ready to ride the rails on a railbike? Here are our favorite railbiking spots in the Northeast.
It’s hard to beat the stunning foliage and natural beauty of New York’s Adirondacks when you’re set to book a railbiking journey. Get ready to pedal 6 or 7 miles round-trip across historic railroad tracks, even along the Raquette River for departures from the train depot in the quaint town of Tupper Lake. Excursions that originate at the station in Thendara enjoy picturesque views across the Moose River. In October, look for haunted railbike excursions.
You’ll feel a rush as you pedal along the historic Northern Central Railway of York. A 7-mile guided railbiking excursion allows for views across historic towns, scenic pastures and lush farmland. The tour’s highlight is the 275-foot-long Howard Tunnel, the second oldest railroad tunnel in the United States, which opened to train traffic in 1838. Choose a two-seat or four-seat railbike and get ready to take in breathtaking landscapes with each pedal of the railbike.
Granite State Rail Bikes wows pedal-loving riders with 5-mile railbike tours on a historic railroad line that dates to 1848. Whether you opt to pedal during the day or roll out as the sun sets, the views across New Hampshire’s fourth largest lake, Lake Winnisquam, will prove spectacular. Railbike excursions for two or four people begin at the historic train depot in Laconia and run to Belmont, a rail town that was incorporated nearly 300 years ago.
Guests pedal four-person railbikes alongside scenic landscapes with Rail Explorers USA in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. (Courtesy of Rail Explorers USA)
Rail Explorers USA offers guided tours on pedal-assist railbikes in six locations, including Milford and Phoenicia, New York; and Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Tours range from 4 to 12 miles, and of course, the landscape depends on the location. The 6-mile Portsmouth tours boast spectacular views across Narragansett Bay, while the Milford excursions have a baseball theme thanks to a location just south of Cooperstown. You’ll even pedal past Cooperstown Dreams Park. Railbike tours that start in Phoenicia are all about the wondrous beauty of New York’s Catskill Mountains.
Soak up the scenery across the majestic Pocono Mountains as you ride on a custom pedal-assist railbike with Pennsylvania Rail Bike. Guided railbike excursions run 10 to 20 miles and incorporate a mix of history, nature and picturesque views as you gently pedal along the Lackawaxen River. The signature Feel the Power tour leads guests to a hydroelectric power station in Brookfield. Seasonal railbiking tours win over guests with ice cream in summer at the historic train depot and pumpkin picking in fall at an area pumpkin patch.
In fall, guests pedal across a 90-foot-tall trestle bridge with Revolution Rail Co. near Lake George, N.Y. (Courtesy of Revolution Rail Co.)
Various Northeast locations in N.Y., N.J. and Maine
Revolution Rail Co. offers railbiking across the Northeast, as well as in Colorado. Pedal-powered excursions range from 3.5 to 14 miles, and feature scenic mountain views, stunning foliage, wildflower meadows and historic bridges. Seasonal tours pair a railbike adventure with river tubing or pumpkin picking. Revolution Rail Co. even books after-dark excursions, like a full moon ride, so bring a headlamp or flashlight and get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience.
For pedal-powered fun in New Hampshire’s state capital, there’s Scenic Railriders, which offers guided railbike excursions on the historic Northern Railroad in two-seat and four-seat railbikes. Pedal across wooded forests and scenic farmlands, as well as the flowing Merrimack River. For those who have more than four riders, two railbikes can be linked together so the whole group can share in the fun on this 6.2-mile round trip.
When your child is ready to get behind the wheel, your head starts spinning. From finding the best driver’s ed classes to setting up car insurance for teens, there are so many things you need to do to prepare. Keeping your teen safe is a priority and making sure they have proper insurance coverage is one way to ease your mind.
Teens are more prone to accidents, which makes them riskier on the road, increasing insurance premiums and adding to the overall cost of driving. Luckily there are steps you can take to make the insurance process simpler and maybe even less expensive.
AAA offers driver training programs in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Learn more.
Understand State Auto Insurance Requirements
Since there are no federal mandates that require drivers to purchase car insurance for teens or other drivers, state laws will dictate the type of coverage that your teen will need. It may have been a while since you selected your own policy, so refresh your knowledge of the laws in your state. In most areas, teen drivers will need liability insurance to cover damage they cause in the form of bodily injuries or to vehicles and other property.
The best time to research auto insurance for teens is when they are ready for a learner’s permit. While teens generally are covered on your policy during this time, you should notify your insurer that you have a learning driver in the household and will soon need to set up coverage.
In the event your teen’s car needs repair or replacement after an accident, collision insurance is the type that will protect you. It covers the cost of repairs even where there is a total loss of the vehicle. Despite their best efforts, teens may have encounters with non-moving objects such as streetlights and trees. You will be thankful for collision insurance if your teen accidentally backs into a fence or hits your garage door.
Save Money on Premiums by Adding a Teen Driver to Your Policy
Once you have researched your options for the best type of auto insurance for teens, you can save money by reviewing your own coverage and adding your child to that policy.
This is the least expensive way to set up car insurance since teens will pay a higher premium for their own auto insurance. In some states the difference is nominal, but in others, the difference can be staggering.
With a limited driving record, increased risk of accident, and little to no credit history, teens are at a distinct disadvantage when securing their own insurance, but this doesn’t mean they shouldn’t assume some financial responsibility. Parents who opt not to cover the cost of insurance often set up their own informal payment plan.
Assign a Teen Driver to a Specific Car
Carriers use multiple factors to determine the cost of insuring the individual cars on your policy. These include the age of the vehicle, safety ratings and susceptibility to being stolen or driven dangerously. Often it is possible to save on cost by specifying the car to which a teen driver is assigned. This prevents your carrier from associating a new driver with the most expensive car on your policy.
Research Discounts for Teen Drivers
Many carriers provide financial incentives when teens sign up for safe driver programs, many of which are available online. In addition to saving money on auto insurance, these programs provide parents with greater peace of mind as they reinforce driving skills and aim to prevent accidents. With fewer years of experience, teen drivers need all the reinforcement they can get when it comes to response time and attention.
Some insurers also provide discounts for good academic performance. This is yet another way to reduce costs while reinforcing positive habits.
What to Do When Your Teen Has a Separate Policy
A shared plan is generally the least expensive way to insure a teen driver, but in some instances, parents may not want to add a teen driver to their policy. If teens will be securing their own auto insurance, help them to research all the discounts available and provide guidance throughout the process.
Once your teen has a separate policy, you may want to consider excluding that driver from your own policy to avoid a premium increase. With most insurance policies, anyone that has permission to drive your car, including members of your immediate household, is considered insured under your policy. If your carrier allows you to specify excluded drivers and your teen’s name is on the title of his or her car, it may help you save money.
Getting car insurance for teens is an important step in the process of becoming a new driver. Fortunately, many of the programs that are designed to keep your teen safer on the road also reduce costs, giving you greater peace of mind in both areas.
Houses, cemeteries and hayrides may garner most of the attention during the Halloween season, but we’d argue there’s nothing more spine-chilling, heart-pounding and undeniably scary than driving down a haunted road. Don’t believe us? You can experience it for yourself: Many of these spooky streets can be found right in our backyard.
For reasons no one knows, the Northeast is home to an unusually high number of purportedly haunted roadways. Each has its own backstory and series of strange, unexplainable events. All are downright eerie.
Clinton Road
West Milford, N.J.
If haunted roads aren’t your cup of tea, it may be best just to stay out of New Jersey, as the Garden State is home to quite a few. Topping the list is West Milford’s Clinton Road and the ghost boy rumored to haunt it. As the urban legend goes, the child died on a bridge along a winding section of the street known as Dead Man’s Curve. According to folklore, the ghost is known to throw back coins tossed into the water.
But this adolescent spirit may be the least of your worries when driving along Clinton Road. Dark and desolate, the 10-mile route is home to a number of eerie landmarks, including a mysterious stone furnace and the remains of a former castle. And then there are the animals. Clinton Road runs near the former site of Jungle Habitat, a safari-themed tourist attraction. The park, which closed its doors in the 1970s, is now abandoned but still there, tucked away in the New Jersey woods. And though all the animals were moved, Clinton Road’s haunted reputation has led many travelers to claim seeing strange animals lurking in the forest.
Route 2A
Haynesville, Maine
“It’s a stretch of road up north in Maine
That’s never ever ever seen a smile
If they’d buried all them truckers lost in them woods
There’d be a tombstone every mile”
Not many haunted roads have their own anthem, but Maine’s Route 2A is no ordinary spooky street. It’s been said the road, which features a prominent hairpin turn, has claimed many truckers’ lives as they tried to navigate the dangerous curve during the cold, icy winter. So treacherous is Route 2A, it inspired singer Dick Curless’ 1965 song, “A Tombstone Every Mile.”
But truckers aren’t the only ones known to haunt this notorious stretch of pavement. Many drivers claim to have come across a woman screaming for travelers to help her rescue her husband trapped in a car. When motorists get closer, the woman disappears. Others have reported seeing the ghost of a young girl killed by a truck on Route 2A many years ago.
Annie’s Road
Totowa, N.J.
You won’t find Annie’s Road on a map — the Totowa street running alongside the Passaic River is officially known as Riverview Drive. Its moniker is the result of a local legend that dates back more than 50 years. As the story goes, in the 1960s, young Annie and her boyfriend were driving home after their high school prom. The couple got into an argument that led the man to kick Annie out of the car. Walking alone alongside dark Riverside Drive, Annie was hit by a truck and died.
The haunted road has been the site of some eerie encounters ever since, including large swaths of red paint appearing on the pavement each year around the anniversary of her death. More notably, many drivers report seeing an apparition of Annie along the road. Others claim to hear screams and see mysterious fog patterns, and still more have said their phones and cameras fail when driving on the street.
In case all this wasn’t spooky enough, Annie’s Road just so happens to run alongside Laurel Grove Cemetery.
Route 44
Rehoboth, Mass.
Some have called the Massachusetts section of Route 44 the most haunted road in the country. Local lore says the highway is home to a 6-foot-tall phantom hitchhiker who wears a red flannel shirt and work boots. The detailed description is important because it supposedly matches that of a victim who died on the same stretch of road some years ago.
Drivers on Route 44 have reported all sorts of interactions with the apparition. Some have picked him up off the side of the road, others have seen him appear in the rearview mirror sitting in the backseat of the car, while another saw him pressed against the car window as he drove. Almost all the stories, however, end the same way: The ghost suddenly disappears, while his loud, maniacal laughter is left lingering in the air.
Shades of Death Road
Warren County, N.J.
No, Shades of Death Road is not a nickname — it’s the official name of a road in Warren County. How it came to be bestowed with the ominous title is up for debate. Some say it originated from the area’s early inhabitants, a group of anti-establishment, murderous squatters. Another, likely more plausible, story cites a malaria outbreak in the 1850s as inspiration for the name. One final account claims “Shades of Death” came about after a spree of grisly murders occurred along the road in the 1920s. According to this telling, the street was originally called “The Shades” in a nod to the low-hanging trees covering the road. “Of Death” was added over time as more murders occurred.
Regardless of its origins, Shades of Death Road is a decidedly eerie drive. The haunted road runs alongside the woods of Jenny Jump State Forest as well as the forebodingly named Ghost Lake, which is known to surround the area in a cloud of fog.
Just when you thought you’ve heard of every type of ghost, goblin and ghoul, we present to you the melon heads of southwestern Connecticut. What exactly is a melon head, you ask? The New England Historical Society describes them as “small humanoids with oversized heads, and they rarely come out from hiding. They survive by eating small animals, stray cats and human flesh, usually the flesh of teenagers.”
If you believe the urban legend, these melon heads live throughout the region’s forested, backcountry roads, including Southbury’s Jeremy Swamp Road. The street is said to have been the site of numerous unexplained disappearances. More specifically, people in broken-down automobiles have gone missing before help arrives.
Tower Hill Road
Cumberland, R.I.
Connecticut isn’t the only New England state with its own forest-dwelling, folkloric creature. The narrow, winding and heavily wooded Tower Hill Road in northern Rhode Island is purported to be the home of a Bigfoot-like being the locals refer to as “Man Monkey.” For several decades, residents have claimed seeing this creature amid the trees while making their way along the route.
Not a Bigfoot believer? Tower Hill Road has been the site of plenty of other bone-chilling reports, including paranormal activity, unexplained lights, child ghost appearances and even zombie sightings. Another belief is the road is haunted by Native Americans killed in 1600s. Travelers have claimed hearing their drums and seeing their ghosts charging over one of the hills along the haunted road.
Have you driven on any of these haunted roads? Do you know of any others? Tell us about them in the comments below!
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
Alaska is unlike anywhere else in North America, offering spectacular landscapes, wildlife that shares the streets with locals and a culture that is not only seen but deeply felt.
Here, summer days linger endlessly beneath the midnight sun and winter nights are lit by a dancing ray of colors in the sky. Every part of this state has something to explore, whether it’s towering mountains, boreal forests or hidden waterways waiting to be discovered.
Anchorage, home to 300,000 people, is where Alaska’s rugged beauty and urban flair meet.
Courtesy of Visit Anchorage. Credit: JudyO.Photos.
Reasons to Love Anchorage
As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a vibrant hub, filled with a variety of sights, experiences and activities.
The art scene thrives in museums, galleries and murals that reflect stories of the city’s history and culture, including Alaska Native traditions.
Outdoor adventures come in many forms, from hiking meandering trails with breathtaking mountain views to a panoramic coastline perfect for a leisurely drive, all within minutes of city conveniences. And wildlife is never far — moose roam freely in nearby parks, Dall sheep look down from rocky cliffs and even beluga whales can be seen coasting along the Turnagain Arm.
Food lovers can enjoy Alaska’s diverse cuisine throughout the city, from freshly caught king crab to exquisite flavors that intertwine global recipes, like clam chowder with Latin roots and Thai curry with salmon.
Courtesy of Visit Anchorage. Credit: Ralph Kristopher.
Anchorage Through the Seasons
No matter the season, there’s always a lot to see and do in Anchorage.
Consider taking a flightseeing tour for unforgettable views of untouched lands, winding rivers and massive glaciers, or spend the day cruising or kayaking in the glacial-fed waters alongside floating ice.
As the seasons change, Anchorage reveals more opportunities to witness Alaska’s most magical show in the wintertime: the northern lights. Imagine seeing the snow-covered peaks beneath shades of green and purple!
Anchorage truly transforms into a winter wonderland. Festive lights and holiday markets bring good cheer to the city streets, while snow blankets the mountains for skiing and sledding. Trails and parks invite runners and cross-country skiers and offer a plethora of activities including fat-tire biking, snowshoeing and ice skating on frozen lakes.
In Anchorage, you can get a taste of everything that makes Alaska so special. Natural beauty awaits just steps from the energy and comfort of city life. And with year-round adventures, the possibilities feel endless.
Travelers often head straight for Spain’s bustling cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville. But head north, and you’ll uncover Green Spain, an ecotourism paradise along the Atlantic coast.
Home to two national parks, 15 Biosphere Reserves and over 200 protected natural sites, Green Spain features four distinct regions linked by a shared dedication to biodiversity, culture and sustainability.
Galicia
In the westernmost region of Green Spain, you’ll find lush landscapes, sparkling shores and so much more in Galicia.
A popular destination is Santiago de Compostela, where Christian pilgrims often come to see the city’s cathedral and the tomb of St. James. Home to Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, the Old Town of Santiago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, described by the cultural organization as “one of the world’s most beautiful urban areas.” People also flock to the city’s vibrant food market, Mercado de Abastos, for fresh local seafood, artisan breads, cheeses and wine.
In southwest Galicia, the Rías Baixas estuary beckons with seven inlets boasting beaches, capes, caves and islands. Rather than trying to conquer a jam-packed sightseeing itinerary, this spot lends itself to leisurely strolls along the waterfront and through the countryside. More inland, in the majestic Ribeira Sacra Biosphere Reserve, there are amazing views to explore, medieval monasteries and one of the oldest wineries in Spain.
To the east of Galicia, Asturias features a much different landscape, one more rugged and mountainous thanks to the Central Mountains and Picos de Europa.
A great starting point for exploring is Picos de Europa National Park. Set out on one of more than 30 self-guided routes through the park to take in the oak and beech groves, watch for wildlife like the brown bear and Iberian wolf and enjoy panoramic views.
Asturias is also noted for its culinary traditions, especially its cider culture. With origins tracing back to the first century B.C., the region offers a variety of ciders — from traditional to sparkling, sweet and more — available to try at local cider houses, mills and orchards.
La Arnía beach in Costa Quebrada Geopark, located along the rugged Cantabrian coast.
Cantabria
Known for its cliffs, caves, valleys and beaches, Cantabria is a nature lover’s paradise.
The area features over 9,000 underground caves, including 10 prehistoric caves declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more than 60 have rock art harkening back to past civilizations. One prime example is Cave of Altamira, which was discovered in 1875 and contains a large collection of Paleolithic rock art. While the cave is not open to the public, visitors can see a replica, the Neocave, at the Altamira National Museum and Research Center.
When you’re ready for a more urban experience, Santander awaits with a blend of past and present. The city overlooks a large harbor with beautiful beaches, including three beaches facing the bay where you can swim and soak up the sun. It’s also a hot spot for surfing, so if you’ve ever dreamed of learning how to catch a wave, you’ll find several surfing schools ready to teach you.
Sightseeing attractions include the Embarcadero Palace, Cabo Mayor Lighthouse and Church of the Most Holy Christ.
Basque Country (País Vasco / Euskadi)
In the eastern region of Green Spain, the Basque Country features a changing landscape starting at the Bay of Biscay and stretching to the Pyrenees Mountains. As such, you have ample opportunity to connect with nature, whether it’s surfing on the bay, hiking the multitude of trails traversing the region or exploring one of the nine natural parks.
Of course, the Basque Country also is home to thriving cities including Bilbao and San Sebastián. Bilbao showcases notable design and architecture, from the Guggenheim Museum and Abandoibarra Promenade to the many bridges around the estuary. In the Old Town, you can wander the Seven Streets, perusing the shops, touring the historic churches and sampling the best of Basque cuisine.
In San Sebastián, enjoy a swim at La Concha beach, surf at Zurriola beach or relax at Ondarreta beach. As the site of the San Sebastián International Film Festival each September, the city also showcases its cinematic side at such locations as the Victoria Eugenia Theater, Teatro Principal and the Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium.
During your visit, you’re likely to hear the Basque language spoken rather than Spanish. It is the only remnant of the languages spoken in southwestern Europe prior to the second and first centuries BCE to carry on in today’s modern world.
From natural wonders to urban spaces filled with culture and history, Green Spain offers it all in one inspiring trip.
AAA travel advisors will turn your inspiration into a memorable vacation, providing trusted guidance and exclusive member benefits. Connect with us to learn more.
One of the best parts about living in the Northeast is getting to see the leaves change once summer winks out and fall makes her grand entrance towards the end of September. Even if you don’t live here, making the Northeast a road trip destination is more than worth it during this time of year when everything feels a bit more like a Hallmark movie.
And what’s a quintessential leaf peeping road trip without a seasonal drink to go with it?
These are our picks for quaint leaf peeping road trips paired with the best places to grab a pumpkin-spice-something on the way.
Need a ride? AAA members can save on Hertz car rentals.
Your first thought when you hear Hartford may not be pretty fall foliage, but this loop takes you from city to scenic pretty quick.
From Hartford, head west until you hit Granby, then continue through to the Hartlands, then Riverton and ultimately through People’s State Forest where you can hike to see the foliage from up above the treetops.
From there, head southeast through New Hartford, Canton, Avon and Farmington — all picturesque towns that are sure to be decorated for the season.
Once you’ve had your fill of charm, head back to Hartford to close the loop.
A bit off the beaten path (you’ll spot it from the line of eager patrons snaking out the door, however), Julien’s Farm Store is an ideal spot to satisfy any countryside craving from their special house blend coffee to pastries and lunch offerings. The café and shop is nestled between two horse farms with a blossoming garden on its grounds making it a scenic pit stop to your leaf peeping adventure.
Rhode Island – Massachusetts
Leaves🍂
Beginning in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, take in the views of Apponagansett Bay before heading west toward Destruction Brook Woods. There, enjoy a walk, hike, mountain biking or just a short peek at the changing leaves around you.
Continue heading west until you cross into Rhode Island and enter the historic village of Adamsville where you’ll find orchards, vineyards and beaches nearby. Pick up a bag of johnnycake meal from Grays’ Grist Mill before heading toward Little Compton. Make sure to visit the elusive Sakonnet Garden, a lush cottage garden with twenty sections of flora and fauna throughout the year.
Lattes☕
Right before you make your way over the border into Rhode Island, make a stop at Wild Honey Cafe. There they offer everything you need to fuel up on your leaf peeping road trip including honey lattes, chai, matcha, sandwiches, salads and lots of other yummy choices.
Maine – New Hampshire – Vermont
Leaves🍂
Start in stunning Acadia National Park where cliffs and ocean views are perfectly framed by the changing fall foliage. The Park Loop Road in particular offers beautiful vistas, especially around Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain.
Next, head southwest into New Hampshire where you’ll enter the heart of the White Mountains. If timed correctly, the foliage will be breathtaking along the Kancamangus Highway, a 34-mile scenic byway that winds through the dense forest and over spectacular mountain passes. Take a respite at Sabbaday Falls or take in the views from Sugar Hill Overlook.
Wrap up your journey in Vermont where winding country roads, old barns and covered bridges create scenes out of a postcard. Make your way to Stowe and the Smugglers’ Notch Pass before continuing south to Woodstock. There, take in the town on foot as you pass historic homes, quaint shops, cozy restaurants and more framed by the falling leaves.
Lattes☕
In Maine, check out Acadia Perk for their wide selection of seasonal drinks and convenient proximity to downtown Bar Harbor.
In North Conway, New Hampshire, stop at The Moon Bakery & Cafe for a cinnamon-dusted cappuccino and house-made pastries.
While you’re visiting Stowe, Vermont, have a revitalizing cup of Joe from Black Cap Coffee, a women-owned specialty coffee shop famous for their maple latte.
Q. The windshield on both my wife’s car (Honda CRV) and my Cooper Mini have lots of little spots on the windshield. They look like chips that stones make but are much smaller and are all over the windshield. I have noticed this on some of the cars I’ve previously owned. My wife describes it as looking at the Milky Way. We only really notice them when driving into the sun. I have tried several windshield cleaners, but they do not do anything. Any idea what causes them and if there is anything you can do to repair the windshield?
A. If it is on the outside, it is probably from sand hitting the windshield and making tiny pits. Unfortunately, if you drive on the highway this is going to happen. You cannot do much about it, live with it or replace the windshield. You can try getting the windshield really clean and then go over it with a claybar (detailing tool) which will remove any grit in the chips and that may help a little, but more than likely there are new windshields in your future.
Q. Since I was a kid, I always loved the 1969-1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1. I am at a point where I can afford to buy one. Do you think the Mach1 is a good investment?
A. If you are buying this Mustang or most any car as a good investment, don’t do it. If you are buying the Mach 1 to drive and enjoy, then buy it. Collector cars go up and down in value depending on the market and collectability. According to Hagerty Insurance a 1970 428 Mustang Cobra Jet at one point was selling for as much as $81,000 and now is around $70,000. This is hardly a market trend but just something to be aware of. My other suggestion is to buy the best car you can afford and avoid partially finished projects unless you have time, talent, budget and garage space.
Q. My 2025 Toyota RAV4 has had an issue with the navigation through the Apple CarPlay, often showing the car offset to one side or the other (by small amounts to hundreds of yards) from where the car actually is. This makes using navigation virtually useless because the system doesn’t think the car is where it really is and, so, gives incorrect directions. This does not always happen, and we have not been able to find any pattern: time of day, local vs. highway, radio on or off, driving in different states, even different people’s iPhones and different versions of iPhones (from 7 to 16) with and without the latest iOS. Of course, when I took the car to the dealer’s shop, they did not see the issue and said they were unaware of this being an issue. They assured me the latest software updates were applied. I even went on a 20-minute drive with one of their mechanics one time and, of course, the system worked perfectly then. Have you heard of this problem before with other cars or the RAV4? Any thoughts about what we could do to address this?
A. As a test using another phone not hooked up to CarPlay, running the same navigation app, does it show accurate. Really all CarPlay should do is mirror the phone if it does not have factory GPS. I have seen certain areas where my Garmin GPS, and phone GPS are not on the road correctly. This has happened even on older roads. I always wondered if it is something blocking the satellite signal or a satellite aging out. I did look for technical bulletins on Toyota’s site and found nothing helpful and looked at iPhone forums and found some mentions of this happening in many vehicles with and without factory GPS https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254835532?sortBy=rank. This may be yet again an issue or incompatibility between automotive and mobile phone technology.
Q. I have a 2025 Cadillac Lyriq with 2500 miles and a chronic problem with the left turn signal. The signal will intermittently fail. I got an error message to check the taillight bulb. I’ve had the car to the dealer twice. The first time they rebooted the software with no success. They then replaced the taillight assembly, and this corrected the problem for about a month. The second time the taillight failed I brought the car in for service and the service manager saw the taillight was not working. However, when they restarted the car to bring it into the service bay the taillight was working fine. GM stated that this is not a known issue, and there are no recalls. I do know that if I turn the car off and let it sit for a while the problem does resolve itself. This is becoming a major concern and annoyance, any thoughts?
A. Since replacing the taillamp assembly fixed the issue for a while, it seems like it could be related to a wiring problem. I did see one technical service bulletin that mentioned a harness retainer clip that could allow the wiring to rub on an axle. As a side note, the all-electric Lyric has a long list of technical service bulletins (and I don’t see them all) and many are software related. At this point I would try to document the failure as much as possible and see if the dealer can get a Cadillac field engineer out to investigate the issue.
Q. I know you are a safety guy, and I believe you got an award from NHTSA for your efforts. What are your thoughts about electric scooters? I see people buzzing around on them all the time. My college student, who can’t have a car yet wants one to use in and around her campus.
A. E-Scooters are considered micromobility devices and certainly have their place. Recently I have been riding a Kaabo Urban e-scooter and although I have ridden bikes both electric and manual, gas scooters and motorcycles, at first I found the E-scooter a little terrifying. Now that I have practiced a bit, it is a fun way to get around. The Kaabo scooter is well made has decent performance, very good brakes and suspension. Required or not I would recommend a helmet and other safety gear. I would also not modify the speed, 15 miles per hour is plenty fast. And like all vehicles, never ride impaired or distracted.
Q. Walmart has full synthetic and advanced full synthetic motor oil. The advanced is 66 more cents. Is it worth it?
A. The Walmart Advance synthetic oil looks like it is designed for extended oil changes. The difference between the SuperTech Synthetic and Advanced Synthetic oil is likely the additive package which may allow longer intervals between oil changes. Although any advanced synthetic oil may offer better protection against wear, I do not believe in extended oil changes unless the oil is analyzed on a regular basis. You could certainly use this advanced synthetic oil but replace the oil and filter at the manufacturer’s recommended interval.
Do you have a car question? Email the Car Doctor for a personal reply: jpaul@aaanortheast.com.
The lower prices for gasoline come at a time when demand for gasoline is staying strong, according to the latest figures from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Demand reached a robust 8.9 million barrels a day last week, the EIA reported – an increase of 150,000 barrels a day over the prior week. While domestic gasoline output climbed slightly, the higher demand, coupled with higher exports, led to inventories tightening by 1.1 million barrels a day and now sit about 3.5 million barrels below last year’s levels.
As gasoline prices fell, oil prices rose last week to levels not seen since August after increased geopolitical tensions, centered on Russia. The United States continues to pressure European and Asian countries to curtail imports of Russian refined products, which could be a catalyst for higher U.S. exports of both crude and refined products. Meanwhile, Russian authorities moved to curb exports out of the country following Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. Time will tell if the higher cost of crude has an impact on pump prices over the long term.
“Pump prices across the Northeast are following the seasonal trend of declining with the arrival of winter blended fuel,” said Mark Schieldrop, senior spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “But higher oil prices could slow the pace of price declines, especially if demand stays strong and inventories continue to decline.”
AAA Northeast’s Oct. 3 survey of fuel prices found the current national average up a penny from last week ($3.14), averaging $3.15 per gallon. Today’s national average price is 4 cents lower than a month ago ($3.19) and this day last year ($3.19).
The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.
In years past, high winds were symptomatic of the occasional tropical storm or offshore hurricane, but recently, it feels as though the severe wind warning on our phones is going off way more than usual. With the increase of windy conditions in the Northeast, it’s natural to wonder if you are covered for damage caused by windstorms.
Wind damage insurance claims are an unfortunate reality for many homeowners, but understanding how to prepare and handle them can help ease your worry.
Is Wind Damage Covered by Your Insurance?
“Standard homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for damage caused by wind, snow and ice to property and personal possessions,” according to the Insurance Information Institute. But the extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific terms and conditions outlined in your policy. It’s important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand the scope of coverage for wind-related hazards.
If wind has caused damage to your vehicle, such an incident would be covered under the comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy.
Performing regular home maintenance is one way to ensure your property is in the best possible shape to withstand high winds (and other potentially damaging storms). Keeping up with repairs throughout the year also prevents you from scrambling to batten down the hatches in a small amount of time.
Here are the main things to make sure of.
Trim trees and branches. Stray, wind-blown limbs can inflict serious damage on homes and vehicles.
Put outdoor furniture inside. Chairs, tables and umbrellas left on a patio can become dangerous projectiles.
Inspect your roof. Unsecured shingles don’t stand much of a chance against a powerful storm. Consider having damaged or loose shingles replaced as soon as possible. In addition, gable roofs are particularly susceptible to high winds, according to FEMA. Owners of gable-roof homes should check to see if the gable frame has a dedicated brace and, if not, consider having one installed.
Cover windows. Securing your windows with plywood or aluminum roll-down shutters can safeguard them against debris.
Guard your garage door. Not all garage doors are built the same – some are better-rated for strong winds. To know for sure, have your door inspected by a professional to see if it will hold up in the event of a big storm. If it won’t, replacing or reinforcing it could protect the door and the contents of your garage.
Making a Wind Damage Claim
If wind does damage your home or car, what’s next?
First, document the extent of the wind damage by taking photos or videos and make a list of any broken items, being sure to note any structural issues. Once the damage has been recorded, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. Provide them with all relevant information, including the date and cause of the damage.
After your claim has been filed, the insurance company will typically send an adjuster to assess the damage in person. Be prepared to show them the documented evidence and answer any questions they may have. At this point, repair estimates will need to be given from qualified contractors to the insurance company. This helps ensure that your settlement amount aligns with the actual cost of repairs.
Then it’s just down to following the claims process. Work closely with your insurance company to complete the necessary paperwork and fulfill any additional requirements. Also be sure to keep track of all communications and documents related to the claim in case it’s necessary to reference them in the future.
The season for haunted happenings has arrived. But what if dimly lit rooms, strobe lights and costumed actors leaping from the dark corners of a haunted house attraction aren’t quite your thing?
If you prefer history and good ghost stories to get you in a spooky mood, you might just want to check out a ghost tour. Lucky for us, our region is rich with such offerings.
Here are 11 interesting ghost tours within a day’s drive.
Ever wanted to use the ghost hunting equipment you see on TV? On a paranormal investigation at the historic Paine House Museum, you’re not just being told stories about the ghosts that haunt this historic home — you’re looking for them, too. Hosted by the RI Paranormal Research Group, this tour lets you explore the home and grounds with EMF (electromagnetic field) detectors, EVP (electronic voice phenomenon) recorders, spirit boxes, dowsing rods and more. Tickets are only available during certain months of the year, so make sure to check out the schedule and buy in advance.
New York City has a spooky side, and Boroughs of the Dead features tours covering all the creepy crawlies the five boroughs have to offer. Voodoo, poltergeists and potter’s fields are all part of a haunted Astoria tour. Or check out the mystical symbolism of architecture in the West Village, walk by the Brooklyn home of horror author H.P. Lovecraft and learn about haunted taverns in lower Manhattan.
Newport’s history isn’t all sailing, folk festivals and Gilded Age-opulence. Ghosts of Newport tours explore more than 350 years of tragedy in the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Guides claim the stories highlighted on each trip were passed to them by eyewitnesses. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next tourgoer to see something you simply can’t explain.
Quick. Picture Burlington, Vt. If you imagined sandal-clad pedestrians walking amid fall foliage and quaint cobblestone shopping areas, you probably aren’t alone. Queen City Ghostwalk explores a slightly different part of the city – a history laden with lumber barons, railroad tycoons, smugglers and war heroes. Choose from walking tours that include Burlington’s downtown or a local cemetery. Bus tours highlighting allegedly haunted spots on the University of Vermont campus are offered in October on a limited basis.
This walking tour through downtown Boston that uncovers the spookier side of the city’s history. From Puritan graveyards and haunted libraries to chilling tales of lost spirits, each stop reveals a darker layer of Boston’s revolutionary legacy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a ghost-loving local, this tour is a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, AAA members save on tickets.
Looking for even more ghost tours of this historic city? The Ghosts & Gravestones Tour is a night tour in a trolley that takes you through the city’s oldest an dmost haunted sites. It includes exclusive access to tow historic buying grounds and the haunted Omni Parker House hotel. This intensely spooky tour is not recommended for small children. Ghost hunters, beware! AAA members can even save on their trolley ride.
Halloween in Salem is unlike Halloween anywhere else. Salem’s witch trial history gives it a unique historic, and possibly paranormal, pedigree. With a mix of scares and history, Salem Ghosts winds around all of Salem’s most haunted locations. Don’t worry about whether you should bring the little ghost-hunters along – it’s family-friendly. Plus, AAA members get a discount.
Do you know where you can find the giggling ghost of Mystic? Those who’ve taken a Seaside Shadows tour do. The company offers ghost tours of the well-known coastal community including one highlighting the downtown area with stories of sea captains, boats lost at sea, hidden treasurers and Civil War widows. The other explores Whitehall Burial Ground, highlighting the significance of grave markings and the burial place of interesting local figures. In New London, guests visit Ye Antientist Burial Ground, one of the nation’s oldest graveyards and resting place of important Connecticut historical figures.
Fell’s Point is among the oldest areas of Charm City, with a shipbuilding history that includes production of the Continental Navy’s first frigate. Ghost tours explore its maritime lineage with a mix of historic and contemporary tales, such as that of a retired sailor whose favorite polka song played in a local tavern after his death, even after it was removed from the jukebox. Guests 21 and older can explore haunted taverns on a pub walk. Tours of Mt. Vernon are also offered in October, where beautiful architecture blends with spooky stories.
Gettysburg’s bloody past makes it a magnet for history buffs and ghost hunters. Gettysburg Ghost Tours appeals to visitors of either interest by highlighting everything from Civil War soldiers to local architecture. Brave souls can sign up to explore frightening areas using ghost-hunting equipment.
Strolling the nation’s capital is a good bet any time of year. To properly enjoy such a thing in October, however, one must do so while hearing ghost stories. Victorian-costumed guides lead walks focused on Lafayette Square, across from the White House. Tales of soldiers, first ladies, war heroes and other figures highlight the area’s tragic past.
Have you ever been on a ghost tour? Tell us about it in the comments.
This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.
Sometimes you really need to get away. AAA member Olga Baumgarten recently enlisted the help of AAA travel services to plan a solo cruise for some much-needed me time.
Baumgarten finalized the excursions for her seven-day Norwegian Cruise Line vacation at AAA’s Garden City, New York, branch. Leaving from New York City, the cruise includes stops in New England and Canada. She took this cruise before, but said that this time the escape was a priority more than the destination.
On a previous cruise, Doscher even arranged to have a cake delivered to Baumgarter’s cabin on her birthday.
“I like talking to a person rather than a computer, and I get to ask questions,” added Baumgarten. “I like to look at brochures, so I don’t have to look at a computer. And this is so convenient. You just make an appointment and come in.”
The Baumgarten family has a long connection to AAA. AAA members since 1983, her husband Jeff, now retired, worked in a New York City branch office for five years, creating AAA TripTiks.
Baumgarten’s family has a long connection to AAA, as members since 1983. And her husband, Jeff, was a AAA employee for five years, creating TripTiks at the New York City branch.
Baumgarten has also been helped by AAA Roadside Assistance. When her car got a flat tire in a local library’s parking lot, she first called her car manufacturer’s road service provider but was told they could not respond for two days.
“I called AAA and they came right away,” she said.
Baumgarten mentioned that AAA membership makes a great gift for a loved one — we agree! Buy a gift membership.
Have you ever planned a trip with AAA travel services? Tell us about it in the comments.
