Though this scenario is highly inconvenient, truck drivers will encounter a backed-up or shut down interstate from time-to-time. Of course, an unusable interstate is more than just a little inconvenient for drivers, as it is the most efficient means of transportation during these long hauls. Nevertheless, you have work to get done. Action must be taken in these situations. Here are some tips to navigating a shut down interstate.
Plan ahead
Planning ahead of schedule is always a good idea. Make a habit of periodically checking traffic updates to avoid interstate inconveniences on the drive. Apps, such as Google Maps and other highway-related systems give real-time feedback on current highway traffic. For instance, a portion of the interstate marked in “red” on Google Maps is an indicator of a traffic back up. In addition, city websites often show current construction projects throughout and near the city. If you are near a city, tuning in for traffic updates provided by local radio stations is a tried and true traffic avoidance method.
Checking the week’s weather conditions ahead of time is a great method for avoiding the back-ups entirely. Smaller storm systems can be avoided by leaving earlier and routes can be adjusted days in advance.
Find an alternate route
Planning helps drivers find an alternate route when traffic is backed-up ahead. Plus, weather and severe accidents can cause an entire region of the interstate to shut down.
Most GPS tools and applications allow drivers to adjust their route in real-time. If you are familiar with the area, simply pull off on an exit and let the app do the rerouting for you. Otherwise, it is best to pull off in a rest area and take a few minutes to manually adjust and optimize the route. GPS apps will often show the fastest route, including real-time traffic jams.
In rare cases, the interstate may be shut down for multiple days due to construction and even weather events. If this occurs, drivers should leave a little earlier and plan their route well in advance, even a few days prior if necessary. Plus, you can end the day earlier if the drive goes smoothly and you hit the day’s max miles sooner than anticipated.
Wait it out
If the interstate is closed due to weather, waiting out the storm until the roads are finally safe is usually the best option. Clearing the interstate is one of the top priorities of the region’s department of transportation due to the high number of commuters that frequent the roadway. If the interstate is closed due to weather, there is a high chance that the roads on the alternate route are in even worse condition. It is best that drivers pull off to a nearby truck stop, gas station, or city and wait out the storm. This can be a good time to finish any paperwork, talk to a loved one, read, or rest up for the remainder of the day’s drive.
When caught in a jam
If you are caught in a jam, it is best to engage in all your defensive driving strategies. Drivers can be hostile on the road at this time and truck drivers usually experience much of this hostility. Take your time and watch out for drivers looking to overtake your position on the roadway. An accident will only cause more of a headache and waste additional time on your trip.