In a digital world, it often feels like we’re glued to our smartphones. But there’s no place for distraction behind the wheel. To mark Distracted Driving Awareness Month, AAA Northeast is urging drivers to put away their phones and help save lives.  

In 2023, 3,275 people nationwide were killed in traffic crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While the number of fatalities decreased slightly, by 1% from 2022, the number of people injured in distracted driving crashes increased by 12% between 2022 and 2023, from 289,310 to 324,819.  

NHTSA reports that cellphone use is the most prevalent form of distraction. The dangers of texting are especially alarming: Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.  

AAA research shows that nearly all drivers surveyed in a recent study perceive texting, emailing, reading and scrolling through social media on a cellphone as dangerous. However, many respondents still engaged in the following behaviors in the previous 30 days:  

• 37% — reading a text or email. 

• 36% — holding and talking on a cellphone. 

• 28% — typing or sending a text or email. 

• 11% — scrolling through social media. 

For teen drivers, AAA research has found that talking or attending to other passengers in the vehicle is also a top contributor to crashes. 

“Distracted driving continues to impact the lives of far too many people,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Any activity that takes your eyes off the road is a potential distraction and increases your risk of a crash. As the weather warms up, it’s especially critical for drivers to stay alert with more pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycle riders sharing the road.” 

AAA offers the following tips to keep drivers alert:  

• Avoid texting, emailing or scrolling through social media while driving. Put your cellphone on do not disturb or place it in the glove box, back seat or trunk of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.  

• Pull over and park in a safe location if you need to send a text or otherwise use your phone immediately. 

• Ask a passenger to be the “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages during the drive.  

• Avoid other forms of distraction while driving, including eating, drinking and putting on makeup. Keep your hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road at all times.   

• Call out your driver if they’re texting or otherwise distracted. Remind them it’s unsafe and encourage them to focus on the road.  

State-specific data:

In Connecticut, from 2021 to 2025, there were more than 26,000 crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the Connecticut Crash Data Repository. Over 7,800 of the crashes resulted in injuries and 48 were fatal. 

In Massachusetts, from 2021 to 2025, there were nearly 46,000 crashes involving at least one distracted driver, according to the Massachusetts IMPACT crash data portal. More than 13,000 of those crashes resulted in injuries and 85 were fatal. 

In New York, from 2021 to 2025, there were more than 300,000 crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the New York Traffic Safety Statistical Repository. More than 109,000 of those crashes resulted in injuries and over 540 were fatal. 

In New Jersey, from 2021 to 2025, there were more than 540,000 crashes involving a distracted driver, according to Numetric. More than 120,000 resulted in injuries and over 900 were fatal. 

Q. Sometimes the engine in my car hesitates to start. The car is a Hyundai Genesis Coupe V6-engine. This vehicle sometimes hesitates to start up. You can hear the starter turning over, it slowly sputters and finally turns over. What is wrong?

A. I would start with a check of the basics. This includes testing the battery, battery cables and connections and the starter. From your description, I suspect a failing battery or poor electrical connection.

Q. My car will drive fine then will randomly shake as if someone is rocking the car. When I slow down, the car smooths out for miles and will randomly shake again. Shaking feels like it is coming from the rear of the cars more than the front. Any thoughts, most people I ask just tell me to buy new tires.

A. I would start with a thorough inspection of the suspension, looking for worn bushings and other suspension parts. Typically, worn or damaged tires will cause a consistent and repeatable shake. Would I check the tires? Yes, checking tires/wheels is part of a good suspension inspection.

Q. I have owned my 1963 Ford Falcon sedan since 1992. It had 57,000 miles on it then and now it has close to 75,000 miles. It has been a great trouble free cream puff all these years. I had it repainted then the original color and seats recovered in original fabric. It’s a great looking car. The problem is the brakes. I’ve gone to four different mechanics who know how to fix old cars and no one can solve my problem. The driver’s side front and rear heat up and grab to the point the hub caps are very hot. New hoses, new brake cylinders, new master cylinders, (twice), new shoes, new springs – still heating up and a couple of years back it was the passenger side that was heating up. This problem has been like this for the last three years. I just don’t drive it anymore because of the brake problem. It’s been an ongoing mystery. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

A. When I was first married, my wife had a 1964 Ford Falcon purchased from the original owner which we used as a daily driver. These cars were simple and easy to work on. Here is where I would start: Even though the master cylinder was replaced twice, I would want to make sure the pedal to master cylinder is adjusted properly. There should be free play of at least 1/8 inch, even a binding stop light switch can cause the brakes to partially apply and overheat. When the wheels are tight, loosen the brake line at the master cylinder. If the wheel loosens up the master cylinder is the issue. These cars have a left- and right-side self-adjusters (star-wheel). I have seen them swapped side to side, which can cause the brakes to bind up or get loose, so worth checking that the correct parts are on the correct side.

Q. I was listening to your podcast and heard you review both the GMC Yukon and the Infiniti QX80. Of these two big and expensive SUVs which one did you like best and why?

A.  On paper, the Infiniti QX80 Sport is the better choice because it has more power (450 hp vs 420 hp) and torque (516 lb‑ft vs 460 lb‑ft), higher towing (8,500 vs 8,000 lbs.) and a more luxurious cabin. On the road, I preferred the GMC Yukon. I felt the ride was smoother, the advanced driver assistance feature — especially the partial self-driving mode — was much better and I felt the controls were more intuitive. And call me old-fashioned, I preferred the V-8 engine over the twin turbo V-6 engine of the Infiniti. My other concern is that Nissan, the parent company of Infiniti, is in the midst of a major multiyear turnaround (which includes closing plants). There are some signs of progress but they are still facing significant financial loses and market challenges.

Q. I was at the dealer and the service person said the car’s brake fluid needed to be flushed. My records showed it was done three years ago. They showed me the fluid, and it was lightly yellowish. What do you think?

A. At AAA, we have found it is good practice to replace brake fluid every three to five years. Brake fluid attracts moisture and moisture is the enemy of the modern brake system.  Fresh brake fluid is almost clear and over time can turn dark brown. Brake fluid that is in service will turn slightly yellow (think cooking oil) and this is normal. The proper method to test brake fluid is with an electronic tester that measures moisture or pH dip-strips that measure moisture and cooper levels. Both methods work although I prefer the accuracy of the dip-strips.

Q. I am the owner of a 2014 Porsche Boxster and love everything about the car, particularly its precise connections it provides between the car, road and driver.  The car’s handling is excellent with its mid-engine weight balance and evolved Porsche suspension.  However, I hear a knocking when moving slowly while steering sharply left or right, such as when backing out of a driveway or parallel parking.  The noise is not noticed when moving at higher speeds. I was hoping you could offer an opinion, thoughts, and perspectives about the relationship between the Ackermann Principle and steering cars such as this.  Research and Porsche service states it is normal with performance cars, but it sounds wrong and is concerning.

A. Most cars use the Ackerman Principle, basically a suspension design/angle that allows the front tires to turn at different angles to prevent tire scrubbing and uneven wear during turns. If this were my car, I would be looking for worn suspension bushings, especially the track bar bushings and control arms in the rear and all suspension bushing in the front. Once any worn suspension parts were ruled out, I would also be suspicious of axle CV joints that could be somewhat dry and causing a low-speed clunk-clunk when turning hard. Although it is a bit odd to have rear constant velocity joints make noise, it is worth investigating. I would want to rule out any possible safety issue before I dismissed the noise as a normal characteristic.

It seems like every day there’s a new supplement going viral for being a game changer. Biotin for healthier hair, probiotics for a healthier gut, magnesium glycinate for better sleep, elderberry for immunity — the list goes on.

While some supplements can be beneficial, there are just as many that don’t do much at all. So, what’s worth adding to the cart and what’s better left on the shelf? We looked into some popular supplements to find out.

Should Everyone Take Supplements?

Short answer: no.

Long answer: Vitamin supplements make sense for folks with a proven deficiency or specific conditions, according to Stanford Medicine. Otherwise, getting a blood test from your doctor can show if you’re lacking in any one area, and they can give their recommendations depending on your evaluation.

People who may benefit from supplements include vegans to fill in any nutritional gaps and those taking GLP-1s as eating less may trigger a need for additional nutrients.

Are Supplements Safe?

Vitamins and supplements are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, but as food, not drugs. This means that safety, effectiveness and contents are not verified before they’re put on the market. Taking all necessary precautions before consuming any supplement is recommended, like sticking to those whose quality is verified by independent groups such as Consumer Lab.

Any supplement you take could also interact with medications, which is why it’s important to check with your doctor first.

Remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean good for you.

Popular Supplements and Their Claimed Benefits

Multivitamins

Multivitamins are marketed as an all-purpose type of supplement, supposedly improving longevity and preventing diseases like heart disease. But do vitamin supplements really work? Long-term studies have found little evidence that multivitamins actually improve survival or increase prevention when it comes to major diseases in otherwise healthy adults.

With that said, multivitamins can still be useful in specific circumstances, like pregnancy (prenatal vitamins), poor diet or certain deficiencies. Basically, multivitamins are generally safe but not particularly worthwhile for healthy people with balanced diets, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Vitamin D

The poster child for bone strength, vitamin D is also thought to have positive effects on immunity, mood (SAD sufferers, unite!) and cardiovascular health. But it’s not all good. Recent studies have shown that the commonly used dose of 2,000 international units (IU) per day had no benefits for bone loss prevention, fractures, heart disease and more. Even worse, other trials showed that doses over 4,000 IU per day can even cause bone loss. In this case, more is definitely not better.

Omega-3 (Fish Oil)

Omega-3 supplements are widely taken for heart health, reduced inflammation and brain function — but the evidence is mixed. People who already eat fatty fish regularly often don’t gain much additional benefit, while those who rarely consume fish may see modest improvements. Like vitamin D, high doses can be risky as they have been reported to increase bleeding risk. As a whole, omega-3 supplements are potentially useful for people who don’t eat much fish, but always consult your doctor first.

Magnesium

Magnesium is involved in a lot within our bodies, from nerve signaling to muscle function and energy production. It’s kind of a big deal. So it’s no wonder why folks may want to up the ante on such an integral component. Most commonly, magnesium and its various forms are taken to improve sleep, reduce muscle cramps and help with stress.

Certain groups can benefit from magnesium supplements, like those with low dietary intake, migraines or metabolic conditions, according to the National Institute of Health. However, the benefits are less clear for healthy individuals without deficiency. In general, taking magnesium can be worthwhile for people with symptoms, but as long as your diet includes magnesium-rich foods like nuts, legumes and leafy greens you’re probably all set.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria taken for gut health, immunity and digestion by replenishing the microbiome, but they’re more situationally helpful rather than broadly necessary for the average person. Eating fermented foods like yogurt, kefir or kimchi provide similar benefits naturally, so you might as well save on that monthly subscription for now.

Overall, diet and lifestyle improvements have a greater health impact than supplements alone. Always talk to your doctor before taking any new vitamin or supplement, or to help decide if a supplement is right for you.

This article is for information purposes only and should not be construed as advice. It’s important to have a personal consultation with a medical professional before making any health-related decisions. 

Do you take supplements? Tell us in the comments.

The national average rose more than $1 in one month to almost $4 a gallon. Crude oil prices remain elevated, settling above $100 a barrel when markets closed on March 27. Continued attacks on infrastructure across the Persian Gulf region and Iran’s stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz are keeping pressure on oil and gas prices around the globe.  

Domestically, tightening gasoline inventories and stronger demand are adding additional pressure to pump prices. U.S. gasoline reserves fell by 2.6 million barrels to 241.4 million barrels last week, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). It was the sixth-straight weekly decline as suppliers purge winter-blend gasoline and more regions transition to summer-blend fuel. Gasoline demand topped 8.92 million barrels a day, up 196,000 barrels a day from the previous week and 281,000 barrels a day higher than the same time last year, the EIA reported. Demand typically climbs during peak spring break season, and many retailers are stepping up purchases to get ahead of future price increases. 

“While the pace of price increases at U.S. gas pumps slowed in many markets last week — and some areas even saw slight declines of a penny or two — oil and gas markets remain unsettled,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “War and higher oil prices will ultimately continue to be the primary driver of prices at the pump.” 

AAA’s March 30 survey of fuel prices found the national average up 4 cents from last week ($3.95), averaging $3.99 per gallon. The March 30 national average price was $1.01 higher than a month ago ($2.98) and 84 cents higher than this day last year ($3.15). 

*Prices as of March 30, 2026 

As of March 30, Oklahoma and Kansas had the lowest prices in the nation at $3.25 each. California and Hawaii had the highest prices in the nation this week at $5.87 and $5.41, 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.  

If you are looking to trim your household budget, start by examining what you put into your grocery cart.

Food is the third largest household expense, according to the latest stats from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Practicing smart shopping techniques can equal big savings over the course of several months or years.

At this point in your life, grocery shopping is likely a rote habit, but it may be time to switch it up a bit in the interest of your budget. Before you browse the food aisles, read these grocery shopping tips to save money.

Learning to Budget

It would be nice if savings could simply fall into our shopping cart without any effort. In reality, we must be diligent planners and follow smart grocery shopping tips to save money. Take comfort in knowing that discounts and savings come to savvy shoppers. If you do your homework and create a weekly or monthly budget, you’re bound to spend less on groceries and shopping in general. Take a moment to look at your grocery receipts or bank statements to get an idea of your regular shopping expenses.

Listen to Our Podcast

Pay off your debt and get your finances in check.  Listen to Episode 10 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Budgeting 101.

Tune In

Once you’ve got a good picture of your grocery shopping habits, come up with a target savings goal and new weekly or monthly budget. Be sure to take into consideration the number of people in your household and your total income. To help you figure out what you should be spending, the U.S. Department of Agriculture puts out monthly cost of food reports that provide estimates of weekly and monthly spending for different budgets (thrifty, low-cost, moderate and liberal).

Budgeting always starts with a clear plan and goal. How much do you want to save per month? What is your savings goal? Answering these questions will give you a long-term vision to work toward.

Grocery Shopping Tips to Save Money

After you’ve compiled a budget that your family is committed to follow, start implementing smart grocery shopping tips to save money. Here are some ideas to cut out fat in your budget.

Meal plans

Planning out your meals for the entire week saves time and money. Take stock of the food that’s already in your kitchen and figure out what can be used to make breakfast, lunch and dinner for the week. Create a calendar and write down every meal. After that’s done, compile a shopping list with only the items you need.

Find Sales

You can browse newspaper inserts for sales and coupons, and there are also free apps to help you find more deals. To save further, become a loyalty member at your favorite grocery store and look out for rebates. Checkout51 identifies rebates for you when you photograph your receipt. The app collects your rewards and then deposits cash rebates into an account for you. If you follow your favorite brands on social media or sign up for newsletters, you may find even more savings.

Buy Generic and Bulk

Resist buying the name brand products that immediately catch your eye. We’ll let you in on a secret: Generic store products are often placed in poor shelving real estate. Comb the bottom and top shelves for discounted off-brand items. Bulk items are also a better bargain than smaller packaged items. But remember to always check the price per unit to see if you’re actually getting a deal on a bulk item. To find the price per unit figure out the cost of the item and divide it by the quantity to get the unit price.

Cut Your Own Food

Buying pre-cut meat and cheese at the deli or pre-cut veggies and fruit is convenient but pricier.

Don’t Shop Hungry

You’ve probably heard it before: Don’t shop on an empty stomach. It’s hard to resist that yummy bakery section or other items not on your shopping list when you’re hungry. Grab a handful of nuts or eat a small snack so you’re not distracted by hunger pangs while you shop.

Add As You Go

Use the calculator on your phone to keep a continual tab of the items in your cart. That way there aren’t any surprises at checkout.

Before leaving the store always check your receipt to make sure you weren’t overcharged.

To save even more money, visit AAA.com/Discounts. 

Do you have more grocery shopping tips to save money? Share your suggestions in the comments below.

This time of year, families are busy tallying up their receipts for tax season and clearing out their homes to prepare for the months ahead. However, even dedicated advocates of spring cleaning often overlook one of the most critical elements of such forward-thinking — a thorough review of their insurance policies.

People tend to approach insurance with a set it and forget it mindset, but you should review your policies often and make changes as needed. Spring is a great reminder to reset and refresh.

While it may not clear out any physical space, taking a look at your policies can trim expenses and ensure that you and your loved ones are protected regardless of what the future holds. After all, life can be unpredictable, and regular updates to your coverage can prevent financial stress and provide you with some much-needed peace of mind.

Schedule an appointment with a AAA Insurance agent today. 

Reviewing Your Policies

For many policyholders, insurance is something that rarely comes to mind. Once you have settled on a plan, you tend to forget it’s even there, going on with your life assuming that you will be covered if something goes wrong. And therein lies the fallacy.

Insurance is never intended to be a one-time consideration. It’s a living, breathing contract that should ebb and flow over the course of your life, providing protection for worst-case scenarios that — in the best of circumstances — you never need to face at all. This is not an instance in which customers should be holding out for the lowest prices either, since such a position often curtails coverage in favor of keeping costs down.

Rather than limiting the amount of insurance coverage you have, shift your perspective to that of someone preparing for any potential outcome. As you develop a sharper understanding of your policy details, you will discover any lingering disparity between what your insurance plan already has built into it and the changes necessary to best fit your lifestyle.

Taking a deep dive into your policies before you even reach out to an insurance agent will streamline the entire process and provide you with the ability to make more informed decisions about your coverage. Planning ahead is the entire premise behind your policy, and it’s up to you to be proactive and take accountability for your family’s financial health.

Checking Your Coverage

As you begin to evaluate your coverage levels, it’s important to account for any changes that may have occurred in the last year. In many cases, even what may seem like small factors can impact your policies. So be sure to carefully reflect on life events, expenses and other adjustments that have come to pass since the last time you assessed your coverage levels. Here are some key examples that may influence each of your policies.

Auto insurance

If you’ve purchased a new vehicle or made any significant enhancements to your car, you should update your coverage. Other factors such as your driving record, state of residence and even your age can greatly affect your insurance. Depending on your state and carrier, you may qualify for an auto insurance discount when you take the AAA Defensive Driving Course. So keep a close eye on your policy before you decide that no changes need to be made.

Homeowners insurance

Of course, if you’ve moved, you need to give your home insurance coverage a comprehensive review. However, any upgrades you’ve made to your home — such as adding a room, remodeling the kitchen or replacing the roof — will play into the amount of coverage you should have on file.

Generally speaking, any change in your assets or major life events like a new job, marriage or child are definite signs that your insurance coverage deserves some attention. To consolidate your policies, you may even wish to explore bundled insurance packages to ensure you have adequate protection going forward.

Spring Into Action

Since insurance isn’t traditionally considered an integral part of spring cleaning, it requires a bit of a change in mindset. Start to see this season of regrowth an as easy opportunity to develop your coverage and make sure what you have is properly protected.

Get a Home Insurance Quote

If you’ve recently driven at night and thought that headlights seem brighter, you’re not alone. A new AAA survey reveals headlight glare is a growing concern among drivers: 6 in 10 drivers said glare is a problem after dark, and nearly three-quarters of those affected said it has worsened over the past decade.

“Several factors, including new headlight technologies and taller vehicle design, are contributing to growing driver frustration with headlight glare,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “The reality is that vehicle lighting technology has evolved faster than regulations. And while adaptive driving beam headlights — which automatically dim the high-beam when another vehicle approaches — are now permitted in the U.S., they are not yet available in mainstream vehicles.”

Most drivers (92%) who experience glare cite oncoming headlights as the primary cause. About one-third also report glare issues in their rearview or side mirrors. 

Additional survey findings include:

• Drivers who wear prescription glasses (70%) experience more glare than those who do not (56%).
• Pickup truck drivers are less likely to report glare (41%) than drivers of other vehicle types (66%).
• Female drivers (70%) report glare more often than male drivers (57%).
• Only 9% of nighttime drivers report they have installed aftermarket LED headlights.
• Driver age and height do not show a statistically significant impact on likelihood to report experiencing an issue with glare. 

To help reduce headlight glare and improve overall nighttime visibility, AAA recommends drivers:

• Ensure both headlights are clean, fully functional and of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) design.
• Avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights to maintain visibility.
• Visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility for professional headlight inspections, replacements and aim adjustments. Misaligned headlights can lead to poor visibility for both the driver of the vehicle as well as oncoming drivers.

AAA also supports the use of adaptive driving beam headlights (ADB). Previous AAA research showed that European vehicles equipped with ADB increased roadway lighting by as much as 86 percent compared to U.S. low-beam headlights.

Mark A., of Warwick, New York, and his friends didn’t need to speak French to get their message across.

If I had known how to say ‘out of gas’ in French (‘panne d’essence’), I could have saved myself some stress.

On a road trip with two bandmates a few summers back from New York to Quebec, my friends and I were having a grand old time on the road, and of course, paid no attention to the gas gauge until it was on E. Chugging to a halt, we made a few calls to local service stations. Would you believe we were still in upstate New York, but no one spoke English? Although we took French in high school, that was 50-plus years ago!

Our driver remembered that he had AAA, so we called. Given the marvels of the digital universe, our message was translated, and needless to say, we were relieved. A truck with gas arrived in fewer than 30 minute,s and we continued on to Quebec and the best T-bone steak I ever ate. Thank you, AAA.”

AAA Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the U.S. and Canada.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

We love baseball in the Northeast. When it comes to supporting our teams, Red Sox, Mets and Yankees fans are known for being some of most devoted.

Each spring, with the much-anticipated first crack of the bat on opening day, we return to such simple pleasures as Fenway Franks, the raising of the home run apple at Citi Field and singing along to “New York, New York” when the Yankees win.

Browse through our stadium guides for helpful tips and recommendations on things to see, do and eat in and around all three big league ballparks in the Northeast. Find out how to get coveted Green Monster seats, discover the most iconic features of stadiums across the country and more. For a fun day trip or road trip, we’ve even included a guide to nearby minor league cities.

Citi Field Stadium Guide	Yankee Stadium Guide	Fenway Park Stadium Guide
7 Minor League Baseball Cities Worth Visiting	The 11 Most Iconic Baseball Stadium Features	Crossword: At the Ballpark

Which jersey do you wear? Tell us in the comments.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

It’s a decision all parents traveling with young children must make when flying and driving — should you bring your child’s car seat along for the trip or should you rent a car seat with the rental car?

It can be a particularly difficult choice if you’re going to be staying at your destination for several days, as the costs of renting a car seat can build up quickly. Fortunately for AAA members, the use of one child or infant booster seat is free when renting with Hertz.

In addition to not having to lug a bulky car seat around the airport, here are a few reasons why you might want to consider renting a car seat for your next trip.

Renting a Car Seat Is Easy and Safe

Most car rental companies offer a variety of options when it comes to securing the right seat to keep your child safe. Hertz provides a wide range of child car seats at all of their rental car locations, voluntarily complying with state laws that require a child seat for rentals.

They offer an infant child seat, which is for a baby who is less than one year old and weighs up to 20 pounds. They also stock forward-facing child seats, for children weighing between 20-40 pounds. Additionally, they carry belt-positioning, high-back booster seats and strollers.

Car Rental Savings

Get up to 20% off the base rate of your next car rental.*

*Terms apply.

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A Lighter Load

Many airlines allow families to bring a child’s car seat at no additional cost, either as checked baggage or as a gate‑checked item. But traveling with a car seat can be awkward and inconvenient. Some car seats weigh more than 25 pounds, which is a lot of extra luggage to be dragging around an airport, especially if you have a little one in tow. Avoiding this hassle is one of the top reasons most people decide to rent one.

There’s also the concern of potential damage. Checked items are handled with regular luggage, and car seats can come out scuffed, cracked or with broken parts.

Renting a car seat at your destination eliminates all of this. Simply pick up a ready‑to‑use seat when you get your rental car.

Other Things to Consider  

One of the first concerns many people have when it comes to renting a car seat is the additional cost. Coming in at as much as $15 a day, the cost of a rental car seat can add up if you’re planning on staying in town for a while. Thankfully, most major car rental companies set a cap around $70 on a car seat rental. Unless, of course, you are AAA member taking advantage of your free car seat with Hertz.

Parents also worry about safety. The American Academy of Pediatrics and AAA advise against using previously owned car seats because there’s no reliable way to confirm whether a seat has been involved in a crash or otherwise compromised. By renting through trusted companies with strong safety standards, you can rest assured that child car seats that are no longer safe to be used are retired from the fleet. Car seats in use are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after every rental and provided with the user manual and necessary instructions to safely and securely install it in your rental car.

Renting a car seat for your child simplifies your life, can remove stress from your travels and ensures the safety of the most precious cargo in your vehicle.

Get exclusive discounts on Hertz car rentals with AAA.

At the close of markets on Friday, crude oil prices settled near or above $100 a barrel — more than $30 a barrel higher than on Feb. 27, before the start of the conflict. Domestic West Texas Intermediate (WTI) settled at $98 and Brent crude — the benchmark made of up mostly Middle Eastern-produced oil — landed at $112. That’s an increase of 8.7% week over week for Brent and its highest closing price since 2022. 

Oil prices remain elevated despite announcements of huge releases from strategic petroleum reserves around the world and the U.S. lifting sanctions on millions of barrels of Russian oil stored on tankers at sea around the world. Those measures have eased some pressure on prices, but markets remain concerned about the long-term impacts of the war on oil and gas production in the Middle East and the lack of cargo traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz.  

With supply from the Middle East slowed to a trickle, countries around the world are increasingly looking to the U.S. to meet supply needs. Total U.S. crude exports last week climbed by 1.45 million barrels a day to 4.89 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), with much of the extra crude exports bound for Asia.  

As the national average for a gallon of regular unleaded nears $4, demand for gasoline settled at 8.7 million barrels a day last week — a decline of 513,000 barrels a day, the EIA reported. The figure is considered strong for this time of year and only 89,000 barrels a day below the comparable week in 2025, but it is likely elevated by fuel suppliers increasing their purchases to get ahead of surging prices since the start of the war. 

“As the conflict with Iran continues, gas prices are likely to remain under pressure as long as oil prices stay elevated,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Prices at the pump across the Northeast haven’t been this high since 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which sent oil and gas markets into similar turmoil.” 

AAA’s March 23 survey of fuel prices found the national average up 24 cents from last week ($3.71), averaging $3.95 per gallon. The March 23 national average price was $1.02 higher than a month ago ($2.93) and 83 cents higher than last year ($3.12). 

*Prices as of March 23, 2026 

As of March 23, Oklahoma and Kansas had the lowest gas prices in the nation at $3.25 and $3.26, respectively. California and Washington had the highest prices in the nation at $5.79 and $5.27, respectively.  

Patrick M. of Quincy, Massachusetts, racked up a lot of driving experience on a family cross-country trip right after he got his learner’s permit.

I had just gotten my driver’s permit, circa 1982. My older sister had graduated from college and took a job as a nurse in Los Angeles.

She, my father and I got a TripTik from AAA, since this was well before today’s GPS, and we were off to LA from Boston.

At the crack of dawn, we drove from Boston to Sylva, North Carolina, nonstop to my father’s cousin’s. Then we went from Sylva to Garland, Texas, to his brother’s house. We stopped in Las Vegas and then went on to Hermosa Beach, California, where my sister got an apartment and went to work at Cedar Sinai Medical Center as an oncology nurse.

My dad and I flew home. I’ll never forget flipping through those spiral-bound TripTik books. It was like analog GPS. I don’t know how AAA did that as it seemed like it would have been done by hand with a huge resource of maps. I got so much experience driving in my sister’s blue Plymouth duster. I learned to read maps and followed those TripTik-highlighted routes perfectly.

It was the first time I ever heard of AAA. Good times.”

For help planning your next road trip or vacation, reach out to a AAA travel advisor.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

When Pete M., of Rockville Centre, New York, needed a new alternator, AAA had him back on the road so quickly that he barely missed any of the football game he was listening to.

While driving cross-country from east to west in January 2025, I departed Lenexa, Kansas, trying for Vail, Colorado.

I was listening to the NFL playoffs when the dash lights blinked and Sirius radio cut out near Colby, Kansas. I drove off I-70 to a Walmart parking lot to assess the trouble.

I called AAA, and less than 30 minutes later, a young man with a AAA-authorized flatbed loaded my truck, and together we researched auto parts stores for a new Ford Expedition alternator. Luckily, there was one at a nearby auto parts store. Then, we’re off to a AAA Approved Auto facility about 50 miles in the direction I was headed. On the way, I learned that the flatbed driver is an apprentice mechanic and a part-time army reservist.

The AAA shop owner shows up, checks on the repairs, and fortunately, the alternator is easy to access and replace. I was back on the road in less than an hour, and I didn’t miss any playoff football either. It was great service and done as a courtesy, because I am a retired combat veteran. I reached Vail before sunset.”

AAA Roadside Assistance is available all day, every day.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

When his daughter needed extra prep for her road test, Troy D. of East Providence, Rhode Island, found an exceptional driving instructor with AAA.

My daughter was in tears. After hours and hours of practicing together — tense moments on the road, some healthy father-daughter arguments, endless parallel-parking attempts in abandoned parking lots and miles of day and night driving — she still failed her driving exam. She bumped a curb during the parallel-parking portion.

She was devastated. For weeks, she wouldn’t even talk about it. I barely knew what had happened, aside from a few details my wife shared, and she was just as upset. My daughter was heartbroken.

Not knowing what else to do, I looked into professional driving lessons at the AAA branch in Cranston. That’s when we found Mike Fish.

Mike was compassionate, patient and immediately put my daughter at ease. He knew how to relate to a teenager and how to teach without overwhelming. Every lesson was worth its weight in gold. As a parent, I realized I could only teach her so much before my constant reminders about driving safety became background noise. Mike knew how to restore her confidence, strengthen her weak areas and focus on what actually mattered.

He also knew the road test course in detail, which made a huge difference. They worked specifically on the skills she needed to pass, and it showed.

The lessons with Mike were worth every penny. With my son starting down the same path soon, I won’t hesitate to sign him up with Mike as well, so he can benefit from the same experience and guidance.

Thanks again, Mike.”

The Key to Success

To better understand what helps students overcome setbacks like this, we asked Fish about his experience as a AAA Driving School instructor.

“It’s a fun job,” he said. “I like the people I work with, and I enjoy working with the kids.”

The key to passing a road test is repetition, said Fish, who was glad to learn that his three two-hour lessons with Danis’ daughter were so impactful.

A AAA driving instructor for 20 years, he knows that practice is the way to success. Kids who fail often work even harder, with some saying they were glad they failed the first time, because it encouraged them to practice more and become better drivers.

AAA Driving School operates in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

When a flat tire put Katerina K., of Natick, Massachusetts, at risk of failing a class, AAA showed up in time to get her back on course.

I am a second-year graduate student in Boston and was on my way to a weekend intensive class. If you are late or absent for any more than a preapproved 30-minute period, you risk losing credit for the class and have to take it again.

So, you can imagine my stress level when my tire blew on the Massachusetts Turnpike, on a part of the road with no breakdown lanes. AAA was there just in time, and they let my fiance (now husband) deal with the car while I got a ride to school as soon as possible.

AAA updated me the whole time on the status of the car, even though I wasn’t there to deal with it, and they were kind enough to get a ride for my husband as well, who needed a way back home.

Without AAA, I would have been in some hot water. Happy to say they helped save the day, my GPA, and everyone ended up OK!”

AAA Roadside Assistance is available all day, every day.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

Walpole, Massachusetts, resident Kat C. praises a tenacious AAA roadside technician for getting her SUV safely on the road instead of needing a tow.

After leaving night school one evening, around 9 p.m., I returned to my SUV in the parking lot and found I had a flat tire.

This was in the days when cars were equipped with regular tires as spares.

It was winter, with some snow on the ground, so it was neither a pleasant time or ideal weather to be changing a tire.

The dispatched AAA roadside technician was having difficulty getting the straps to release the spare tire, because they were corroded, and he needed a flashlight to see what needed to be done. The working conditions were dark, definitely cold and it was getting later, but he toiled at it.

I felt badly for him working in such conditions and mentioned a few times to just tow the vehicle and I’d deal with it the next day. He didn’t want to give up. He said he almost had it, and continued trying. He eventually did get the tire released, changed it out, and we said our good nights.

I thought he showed exemplary and diligent customer service under such conditions. He easily could have towed the vehicle but was dedicated to resolving the situation at the scene.”

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

Already familiar with AAA Roadside Assistance, Anthony L., of Natick, Massachusetts, was happy to learn about great insurance options, too.

“I thought AAA was only great for road service. Little did I know, that there were so many other services that they offer.

Not only do I insure my car with AAA, but recently I purchased a great life insurance policy. The representative was very helpful, and after shopping around, I found the rate was the best for the amount of insurance I received.”

Learn how AAA Insurance can meet your auto, home and life insurance needs.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

Spring’s arrival ushers in one of the season’s most beautiful sights: cherry blossoms. These delicate pink and white flowers are native to Asia and strongly associated with Japan, where they symbolize renewal. In the U.S., Washington, D.C., is home to the most famous display with those fleeting flowers blooming against the capital’s white monuments.

But you don’t have to head to Washington to see cherry blossoms. There are plenty of places in the Northeast to admire these short-lived beauties. Even better, you could catch them in the capital first, then enjoy a second viewing two or three weeks later when the trees reach peak bloom farther north.

From peaceful gardens to lively festivals, here are a few of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the Northeast this spring.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

Wooster Square

New Haven, Connecticut

The neighborhood surrounding this park, named after Revolutionary War hero David Wooster, has celebrated the ephemeral beauty of its 72 Yoshino cherry trees every spring since they were planted in 1973. The annual Wooster Square Cherry Blossom Festival, held in mid- to late- April, draws thousands with food vendors and live music. Even outside blossom season, the park is perfect for a quiet stroll followed by a slice at one of New Haven’s legendary pizzerias, like Frank Pepe’s or Sally’s Apizza, both nearby.

Charles River Esplanade

Boston

If you’re looking for cherry blossoms in Boston, the Charles River Esplanade puts on a top display, with dozens of trees leading up to the Arthur Fiedler Footbridge. Take in the pink views and people watching at one of the top riverwalks in the country, ranked by USA Today.

Branch Brook Park

Newark, New Jersey

Visit this 360-acre park, home to the nation’s largest collection of cherry blossoms — 5,300 trees in all — designed by the Olmsted brothers, the renowned landscape architects behind Central Park. The park hosts the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival every April, with food vendors and live performances. Also, find a ton of family-friendly events like a bike race, a 10K run, children’s activities and Japanese cultural demonstrations. The cherry trees usually hit peak bloom between the second and third weeks of the month, so keep an eye on the “bloom tracker” on the park’s website if you want to time your visit just right.

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The Japanese Garden at Delaware Park

Buffalo, New York

When it comes to peaceful places to see cherry blossoms, it’s hard to beat this small but elegant space tucked behind the Buffalo History Museum, where koi ponds ripple gently beside carefully placed cherry trees lining the walkways. The garden also hosts the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual celebration in late April, where you’ll find food vendors, tea tastings and cultural performances.

Greenport Village

Greenport, New York

Head to Greenport Village on Long Island’s North Fork for a springtime visit when more than 300 cherry trees burst into bloom. This waterfront village is home to Okame, Yoshino, snow goose, Sargent’s and Kwanzan cherries, which line the streets in brilliant pink and white.

The annual Cherry Blossom Festival occurs over several weeks, typically in April and May, depending on the weather. Take a self-guided walking tour of the flowering trees and then pick up some blossom-themed refreshments and gifts at participating local businesses. For the most current information, including event schedules and bloom updates, visit the official Greenport website or contact the AgroCouncil, which sponsors the festival.

Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum

Bristol, Rhode Island

For cherry blossoms paired with a gorgeous waterfront view, make your way to this 19th-century mansion and arboretum perched on Narragansett Bay. It’s best known for its spring daffodils — more than 50,000 blooms across 80 varieties — but the grounds also feature a lovely collection of cherry trees. After exploring the gardens, you can head into town for a stroll along Hope Street, Bristol’s main thoroughfare lined with boutiques and restaurants.

New York Botanical Garden

The Bronx, New York

This 250-acre urban oasis in the Bronx is a top destination for cherry blossom season with a vast collection of more than 200 flowering cherry trees from 82 different species, hybrids and cultivated varieties. The season kicks off with Okame cherries in March, followed by Yoshino cherries in April and Kanzan cherries through mid-May. For one of the best views, stroll along the Cherry Esplanade, where rows of trees line the walkway. Beyond the blooms, the garden offers indoor exhibits and seasonal displays worth a visit. Plus, AAA members can snag a 20% discount on Garden Pass tickets using a promo code — a bonus for anyone looking to make a day of it.

Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center

Philadelphia

Visitors can step inside to see sliding doors hand-painted by renowned Japanese artist Hiroshi Senju, then wander through gardens with koi ponds, a waterfall, a tea house and more than 100 cherry trees. The gardens come alive in early April with traditional performances, tea ceremonies and family-friendly events during the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival.

Located in West Fairmount Park, this historic site is a traditional 17th century-style Japanese house and garden just minutes from downtown. The structure was designed by architect Junzo Yoshimura and built in 1953 for an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. It was then moved to its current site in 1958.

What’s your favorite place to see cherry blossoms in the Northeast? Share them with us in the comments below.

AAA Northeast is celebrating Earth Month throughout April with volunteer projects designed to bring members, employees and community groups together to help beautify the environment.

If you’re looking to make a difference in your neighborhood, join AAA branch teams as they spruce up parks, beaches and more. Cleanup events are happening monthlong across the Northeast.

Typically, employees show up in force, but AAA branches are trying to get more members involved, explained Thomas Ryan, district branch manager and co-chairman of the Branch Operations Member Engagement Committee.

“Earth Month is our biggest member engagement program of the year,” Ryan said.

In 2025, AAA Northeast successfully hosted 18 Earth Month events across the region, with a notable 79% member participation rate.

Some of our most successful events in 2025 included:

• Sound Water Cleanup in Stamford, Connecticut, where a team of 17 volunteers joined us.
• Save The Bay event at Scarborough Beach, Narragansett, Rhode Island, where were joined by 13 members.
• Three Earth Day weekend events in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, bringing in around 135 member volunteers, despite the rain.

“Besides cleaning up our community, the most rewarding part is creating relationships with members,” said Maggie McMenemy, branch manager and co-chairman of the Member Engagement Committee.

“It’s a great opportunity to get involved in the community, do something with your family and learn more about community organizations,” Ryan added.

Visit your local AAA branch or click here sign up for a AAA Earth Day cleanup near you.

How will you celebrate Earth Day this year?

Learn more about AAA in the community.