Contraflow Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a contraflow operation?
The main benefit of a contraflow operation is the ability to use the maximum
number of highway travel lanes possible for evacuating people from a threatened
area. This increases the amount of traffic that the highway can accommodate
during an evacuation when it is likely that more cars will be on the road.
What are the risks in contraflow operations?
There are several drawbacks. There is the risk that overwhelming congestion will
occur at the beginning and end of the contraflow route, and that evacuees may, at worst, still be on the highway in their vehicles when the storm
hits.
There are safety concerns about traffic flowing in the reverse direction on a
segment of highway. Such highway features as signs, guardrails, and
interchanges are designed for vehicles headed in a particular direction. There
are additional safety implications in asking evacuees who are already stressed
and fatigued to drive on the wrong side of the road.
How are contraflow operations scheduled?
A contraflow operation is designed to begin
immediately after sunrise to take full
advantage of daylight hours. Later in the day, the reversed lanes are closed at
the starting point to allow time for the last cars in line to clear the contraflow termination before dusk.
If a contraflow is declared for your community, the FDOT and FHP will have a
minimum of 24 hours to prepare the route and assemble their equipment. During
this time, tune to your local radio or television stations for advisories on
the contraflow operation.
How does a contraflow route begin and end?
The contraflow route is designed to begin at a certain point, typically at a
paved crossover in the highway median. It will conclude at a predetermined
location where the traffic on the reversed lanes crosses the median back to the
regular side of the road, or is merged on to another highway. There, you will
be able to seek temporary shelter locally or continue traveling to another
destination. Signs along the route will provide instructions on where to exit
and what facilities are available for food, fuel and rest stops.
Why do contraflow routes end at major interchanges?
The main goal of contraflow operations is to quickly move as many evacuating
people away from the threatened area as possible. At the end of the route, the
contraflow traffic must be handled properly to minimize any backups. The best
place to do this is at a major freeway-to-freeway interchange. Another factor
in contraflow termination is locating the endpoints so that motorists are left
with the option to seek shelter or to continue their travels.
How does FDOT assess conditions in determining whether to implement contraflow operations?
The principle indicator that a contraflow may be needed is when the number of
evacuating vehicles increases to the point that travel speeds drop
significantly and there is traffic congestion. Besides firsthand reports from
personnel along the route, the FDOT relies on other tools to assess traffic
conditions, such as traffic count stations and closed-circuit television
cameras positioned along the highway.
If motorists leave the highway for gas or food, can they get back on?
Yes. Reentry of the contraflow route from an interchange or rest area is allowed
in most cases. There can, however, be restrictions on which side of the highway
you are permitted to reenter. This varies, depending on the design of the contraflow route. Specific instructions on exits and reentry are provided by
message signs along the route.
Is there a contraflow route for I-75 north of Tampa?
Yes, that plan is being prepared now and will be reviewed soon by FDOT and FHP
emergency managers. As soon as the plan is finalized, it will be available at
this Web site and from FDOT and FHP offices in the Tampa Bay area.
Why aren't there contraflow routes for the western part of I-10 or for I-95?
A critical goal of any
evacuation is to ensure that
people are taken to a safer
locale. The principal cause
of fatalities from
hurricanes is not wind, but
storm surge, so evacuees
must be moved away from
coastal areas most
threatened. When coupled
with the uncertainty of a
hurricane's projected path
and point of landfall, I-10
in the Panhandle and I-95,
which both roughly parallel
the Florida coast, cannot
reliably take evacuees out
of harm's way. Therefore,
these routes do not have
contraflow plans.
What should I do if my vehicle breaks down?
Dial *FHP or use the nearest Motorist Aid Call Box. If your vehicle becomes
disabled and you are stranded, the motorist assistance patrols offer
free assistance to help get your vehicle restarted.
Because state law requires that travel lanes be kept
clear, motorist assistance patrols are instructed to push disabled cars to the
unpaved shoulder of the road. If need be, motorist assistance patrols also will
assist you in arranging transportation to the next
interchange.
What should I do if I'm involved in a crash?
If you are involved in a crash, move all vehicles from the travel lanes as quickly
as possible. If you are unable to move your vehicle, seek help from other motorists.
Law enforcement services will be generally limited to emergencies, so drivers are urged
to exchange the following information: driver’s name, address, and vehicle registration
number, along with the insurance carrier’s name.
How can I get medical help if I need it?
For incidents involving injuries that require immediate medical attention, dial 911
or *FHP. Please wait for emergency responders away from traffic.
