Last-minute Christmas shopping means heavier traffic

There’s only four days until Christmas and many people are going to the Dayton Mall for last minute gifts. This means heavier traffic around the property and even on the interstates.

News Center 7's James Buechele talked with drivers on how they're handling the extra congestion.

>> Holiday travel to break records, but roadways may not be as congested

Jesse Turner, of Miami Twp., is one of thousands of people in the Miami Valley that still has Christmas shopping to do. Despite the rush, he was able to get in and out Friday afternoon.

“It’s not too bad as far as the weather, and even though we’re getting close to the wire, it’s not too bad as far as the traffic. Maybe later it’ll be worse,” he said. “I think more in the parking lots you gotta watch for people backing out and just being in a hurry.”

>> Ohio travelers to see increased traffic for holidays

Other drivers were dealing with more congestion on roads such as 725 in Miami Twp.

“It was noticeably heavier today. The whole way here we were surprised like at 1:30 p.m. how busy it was,” said Cheryl Shupe. “You just gotta kind of watch where you’re going and stay in your lane and come with a lot of patience.”

Ohio State Highway Patrol said even if you’re not traveling far for the holiday, you still need to give yourself more time if you’re staying local for the extra traffic.