511 Traffic Systems

As a Tennessee resident, you're probably familiar with the 511 system, and may even be an experienced user of the service. But, for those who aren't, let's take a look at the history of the system, and see how you can access it.

Background

The U.S. Department of Transportation, with the approval of the Federal Communications Commission, developed the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to increase traffic efficiency and safety on the nation's roadways.

The ITS gathers information about almost everything that can impair the ability of motorists to arrive at their destination safely and smoothly, such as detours, accidents, road closures, poor weather conditions, and dangerous roadway surfaces.

511 Plan

The service is free, and the information you receive by calling 511 is much more detailed than you'd get from a local television or radio traffic report.

Motorists can employ the service when traveling through states that deploy it. Some states, including Tennessee, also have Web sites which allow you to review the information online.

Tennessee 511 Access

It's simple to access this information in The Volunteer State.

Just dial 511 from a landline or cell phone, or (877) 244-0065. (The latter number may also be called when outside the state to access information about Tennessee.) Follow the prompts to hear information about road conditions, traffic congestion, accidents, and weather reports. The information updates every five minutes.

This information is also available online through the Tennessee 511 site. As an added bonus, viewers may watch live shots of traffic conditions and roadways, thanks to Web traffic cameras mounted throughout the state.

Have any questions about the 511 system? Try browsing through the state's 511 frequently asked questions page.