How It Started…How It’s Going:
AAA celebrates 120 years of serving members, helping travelers see the world and driving change for traffic safety
In March, AAA celebrated 120 years of advocating for safe mobility for drivers and travelers alike. Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart the path for better roads in America, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations, providing roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of more than 62 million members.
The new data are from the AAA Foundation’s annual Traffic Safety Culture Index, highlighting the gap between drivers’ attitudes and reported behaviors. The following shows some of the improvements in unsafe driving behaviors from 2018 to 2020.
AAA was built out of a commitment by a few to advocate for safe, efficient roads and enhanced mobility for all. People may know us for roadside assistance, but we are so much more than that. Today, AAA is a trusted voice consumers can turn to for all things mobility, travel and beyond.
Throughout AAA’s storied history, the federation has been instrumental in pushing for legislation and training to improve roadway safety for everyone, whether for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists or first responders. This includes advocating for the creation of the Interstate Highway System in 1956, fighting for Move Over laws in all 50 states, developing driver education programs for all ages and the AAA School Safety Patrol program, speaking out on impaired and distracted driving and demanding stronger seatbelt legislation across the country. Much of this work is supported by proprietary research conducted by AAA automotive experts and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety on these same issues.
As one of the largest full-service travel agencies in North America, AAA recognized early on the importance of providing the public with trusted travel information. To serve this need, AAA created a suite of resources that are still synonymous with travel today, including the TripTik, the AAA Diamond designation and TourBook travel guides. AAA also developed a network of expert travel advisors who for decades have been instrumental in making dream vacations a reality for members across the country.
As AAA embarks on its 120th year, it stands among a small number of industry pioneers still in existence. The longevity of organizations has eroded over the years, impacted by economic depressions and recessions, mergers and technological disruptions. In 2020, the average lifespan of an S&P 500 company was just over 21 years.
The first 120 years are only the beginning. AAA, a pioneer from day one, continues to evolve to meet today’s changing mobility and travel landscapes and to meet member needs. From digital transformations that improve the member service experience, to pilot testing mobile battery charging solutions, developing new and exciting travel tools and resources, and conducting research to understand consumer attitudes, frustrations or delights with things like vehicle automation or Mobility on Demand, AAA’s products, services and advocacy are geared toward enhancing our members’ life journey.
AAA is a strong and resilient brand and I’m excited about how we are positioned for the future. From roadside assistance to travel, AAA has evolved legacy programs and services, while pursuing new digital-focused initiatives that provide members more solutions to meet their needs.
