Icy Road Closes I-75 TN to KY: What to Do when Stranded in Winter

On January 17, 2009 the Interstate 75 was closed in Tennessee from the Caryville-Jacksboro exit #134 to the Kentucky state line. In between these two points was an ice and snow covered mountain.

Road conditions on this normally smooth stretch of pavement were treacherous. Even with the work of road crews from the Tennessee Department of Transportation travel was dangerous.

The road was literally littered with cars that had lost control on the black ice. Travelers were forced to spend the night in motels at the Caryville - Jacksboro exit because there was nothing else to do. The road was completely impassable and remained closed from 10:00 pm until late in the morning on the 18th.

This underscores the need for winter drivers to be prepared. Road conditions may change in just a few miles. In Tennessee, the road went from merely wet to impassable in about 5 miles. To better prepare for unpredictable weather there are a few things you can do.

Do not leave your car.

Stay with your vehicle. Turn on the heater for short bursts. Be sure that your tailpipe is clear. Open a rear window a crack to let air into the vehicle. Make yourself as comfortable as possible. Do move your feet and legs every so often to keep your blood circulating.

Cell phone.

In remote areas it may be hard to get a signal. Emergency services may work on a different frequency from regular calls. Try both. Even if it doesn't go through leave the cell phone on in case temporary interference is blocking the signal.

If you do get a signal be sure to tell them your location and which direction you are going. Also tell them any landmarks that you can see. This can help emergency services find you.

Pack well before the trip.

Keep an extra blanket, snacks and bottled water in your car. If you become stranded on the road or in a ditch it could be hours before help arrives. The blanket will provide needed warmth; the snacks will keep your energy up and prevent dehydration.

If you are ordered off the road:

Be calm. Follow any instructions that are given to you by law enforcement. If you aren't sure what to do and have the chance, ask a police officer. Otherwise, follow the line of traffic. Tuning into a local radio station may help you get more information.

Keep in contact.

If you have a cell phone signal check in with family and friends. This will reassure them that you are ok.

Keep informed.

Calling 511 will help you stay up to date on road conditions in many parts of the United States. This can be called from a cell phone or a landline.

Source:

http://www.wate.com

http://www.wbir.com/