Alabama → Louisiana · Interstate 65 / Interstate 20
On heavy-rain or dense-fog days the Birmingham, Alabama, to New Orleans, Louisiana, leg routinely demands well more than the 5h 39m estimated: Interstate 65 / Interstate 20 carries known hydroplaning hot spots and reduced-visibility corridors that justify dropping to 35 mph through a few short stretches. The outbound run covers 593 km (368 miles) over varied topography between Birmingham (the largest city in Alabama and former steel-industry capital of the Deep South) and New Orleans (the Mississippi River delta port and the birthplace of jazz music), demanding sharper attention on mountain descents and shoulder-less curves. Before pulling out, check brake-pad wear, tire tread depth, and washer-fluid level in the reservoir. Fuel spend holds near $49.59 for the 53.9 liters (14.2 gallons) consumed. Even in adverse conditions, the flat tariff of $0.43/km guarantees the standard outbound payout of $254.99 — log any incidental costs (extra toll, mandatory meal, emergency lodging) in a separate field on the Clara receipt.