INDIANAPOLIS — With less than two months until the total solar eclipse, Indiana State Police and INDOT are urging Indiana drivers to start preparing their travel plans.
Nearly 4 million Hoosiers live within the "path of totality" for the April 8, 2024 eclipse. The state is also bracing for hundreds of thousands of visitors.
That means there will be a lot more people on the roads to reach their viewing destination. The agencies are directing people who plan to be on the road that day to check out INDOT's TrafficWise tool to plan a route.
It is also a good tool to monitor real-time traffic conditions and redirect your route if something pops up.
In addition to planning your route to and from your viewing spot, state police and INDOT shared other tips for driving on the day of the eclipse:
Before the eclipse
- Research your viewing site, considering accessibility, parking and crowd size. Check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at 511in.org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions. Plan to arrive to your destination early.
- Anticipate increased traffic and congestion, especially in areas in or near the path of totality.
- Reach your destination safely — buckle up, and put your phone down while driving.
- Pack plenty of snacks and water, as well as charging cables for electronics and mobile devices, in the event you or your group become stranded.
- Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, and top off fluids before you head out in case you’re stuck in traffic for a long period of time. Use this eclipse-ready checklist for more road trip essentials.
- Don’t forget your solar eclipse viewing glasses! You will need specially designed glasses to avoid damage to your eyes.
During the eclipse
- Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the main path, if possible.
- Exit the roadway to stop and view the solar eclipse. Do not stop along highways or park on the shoulder for viewing.
- Do not take photos or videos while driving. Indiana is a hands-free state. Holding mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets while driving is prohibited by state law.
- Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving.
- Turn on your headlights. Do not rely on automatic lights.
- Watch for pedestrians, especially along secondary roads.
After the eclipse
- Plan your post-event transportation method well in advance. If celebrating, ensure everyone has a safe and sober way to return home. Designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation.
- Exercise patience when leaving your viewing location as traffic may be heavy. Follow instructions from law enforcement or emergency personnel, and be considerate of fellow drivers. Stay put and stick around to avoid the post-event rush.
- Clean up after yourself, and dispose of trash in designated receptacles or take it with you.
- Once again, check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at 511in.org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions.