Drive safely during, to and from ecplise
By Ethan Smith
Published in News on August 11, 2017 5:50 AM
Highway safety agencies are urging drivers to take necessary precautions to travel safely during the impending solar eclipse Aug. 21.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is concerned with increased traffic on highways as drivers try to get to the best viewing spots around.
A complete eclipse -- one that literally makes the daytime look like the nighttime -- won't be visible in Goldsboro, or anywhere else in eastern North Carolina.
But it will be visible in the western part of the state.
The N.C. State Highway Patrol recommends arriving to your chosen viewing destination early, preparing for traffic delays, planning an alternate route if possible, monitoring traffic reports on radio stations, having food and water at the ready and removing your car from the highway if you are in a crash or have issues.
The agency also says motorists should not stop on the roadway at any point before, during or after the eclipse, and should refrain from parking on highway shoulders.
They also say there is no need to wear eclipse glasses while driving or attempt to view the eclipse while driving.
Also, turn on your headlights.
AAA Carolinas recommends many of the same safety tips, but also advises drivers to reduce their speed while driving and to have a full tank of gas, a first aid kit and any necessary medication on hand.
The agency also says people should not depend strictly on cell phones for navigation -- cell towers will likely be overburdened and coverage could become spotty.
The path of totality of the Aug. 21 total solar eclipse will track across the far western corner of the state including the Great Smokies and Nantahala National Forest.
In those areas -- already popular tourist destinations -- travelers will be able to enjoy eclipse-related event and regular activities involving mountain peaks, whitewater rivers and placid lakes.
Motorists can download the free ReadyNC mobile app for iPhone or Android for real-time traffic updates and other information.
If you plan to travel, National Park Service campgrounds, including those on the Blue Ridge Parkway, can be researched and booked at www.recreation.gov.
Many commercial campgrounds and most campgrounds operated by the U.S. Forest Service and North Carolina State Parks can be researched and booked at www.reserveamerica.com.