The first total solar eclipse in the U.S. in seven years will take place today on April 8th, and many rural areas in Northern New England are along the eclipse’s path are preparing for an influx of traffic. There will be many great viewing spots for the solar eclipse and AAA Northern New England is warning drivers be alert because the fast moving phenomenon could impact traffic safety.
AAA Northern New England is recommending visitors make a plan for the day. "If you're going to go out and view the eclipse know where you're going to go, have a plan as to where you're going to go and get to that spot and park. Avoid parking on the side of the road which can interrupt traffic.” said Pat Moody manager of public affairs for AAA Northern New England.
With many people anticipated in rural areas and along secondary roads, there is a concern that folks are going to kind of go off the beaten path trying to avoid the crowds and find themselves stuck. AAA is reminding drivers that safety behind the wheel is especially important to consider. With lingering winter conditions from last week's Nor'easter, and the mud that can come with springtime in Northern New England, AAA is providing driving safety tips,
AAA Safe driving tips for the solar eclipse
- Choose courtesy. Be watchful, alert and courteous of others on the roads, highways and interstates.
- Do not drive distracted; don’t use a cell phone or other devices while driving. Focus on the “task” of driving.
- Don’t look at the eclipse while driving and don’t take photos while driving.
- Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder during the event. Do not drive or park on dry grass – it’s a fire danger.
- To view and/or photograph the eclipse, exit the highway to a safe location.
- While operating a vehicle, don’t wear eclipse glasses.
- Turn your headlights on -- do not rely on your automatic headlights when the eclipse blocks out the sun. Make sure lights are on once the moon crosses in front of the sun.
- Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists along smaller roads. People may be parking, walking and cycling alongside the road before the eclipse to get a view. Look for pedestrians who also may be looking up and not looking ahead.
- Anticipate heavy congestion, especially on the interstates in the path on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.
AAA’s car care tips
- The top three roadside assistance calls to AAA in the spring are for dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts, and some motorists may run out of fuel in bumper-to-bumper traffic jams. If driving to see the eclipse, schedule a vehicle checkup beforehand.
- Travel with an emergency kit in your car with food, water, medications, flashlight, first-aid kit, flares or emergency triangles, cell phone, cell phone charger, windshield washer fluid and extra cash.
- Leave early and expect delays. Roadways around the “totality” zone will be extremely busy. Be patient.
- Keep sufficient fuel in your tank. Keep the level at about half a tank. Carry food and water for your passengers and pets.
- Always lock your vehicle and do not leave valuables in your car.