The lowest gas prices since 2005 and Fourth of July celebrations are expected to put a record number of people on the roads this holiday weekend. 

Motor club AAA expects more than 36 million people to drive 50 miles or more from home during the holiday period. It’s the third year in a row of record-breaking travel forecasts, and the uptick is fueled by low gas prices. 

“We’ve seen a large increase in the supply of crude oil in the market place,” said Brydon Ross, the Consumer Energy Alliance’s vice president of state affairs. 

Ross said Kentucky currently averages about $2.24 per gallon of regular gasoline, which dropped from $2.71 last year. The current cost is much more palatable than in 2008, when the highest price was $4.09 per gallon of regular gas. 

“I think what you can see is a historic downward trend in prices,” he said. 

Several changes are contributing that, Ross said. Gas production is up in North America and companies have become more efficient in extracting oil. 

That savings is showing up in consumer behavior, Ross said, adding that “trucks and SUVs have been flying off the lots all over the nation.”

AAA also reports lower gas prices have saved U.S. drivers roughly $20 billion on gas so far this year, compared to the same time of year in 2015.

When it comes to saving more money, there are ways drivers can go the extra mile. 

Ross said those strategies include running the air conditioning only when needed and not hauling too much. Properly inflated tires can also save “2 to 3 percent on your fuel economy,” he said, along with regular car maintenance and maintaining a steady speed. 

The holiday weekend is also prompting Kentucky State Police to step up its anti-drunk driving enforcement. 

Kentucky State Police Post 3 spokesman Trooper B.J. Eaton said the problem with alcohol is that it “hinders your ability to make good decisions” and impairs a person’s ability to drive. 

“We recommend designating a sober driver before you even start drinking,” he said. 

Along with designating a driver, Kentucky State Police recommend using taxis, public transportation or calling a family member or friend to get home safely. 

Officer Ronnie Ward, spokesman for the Bowling Green Police Department, also urged drivers to avoid drinking. 

“It is never a good idea to think you can get away with drinking and driving because it not only affects you but could affect other people’s lives as well,” he said. “You can always call someone to come give you a ride.” 

Stephen Harmon, a spokesman for the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, urged travelers to look out for impaired drivers and practice safe driving over the holiday weekend. 

“Always allow plenty of room between you and the car in front of you,” he said. “It increases your reaction time.”

He said drivers should also wear seat belts, watch their speed and avoid distractions to reach their destinations safely.

— Follow reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @aaron_muddbgdn or visit bgdailynews.com.