JACKONSVILLE, Fla. – State and federal transportation agencies are warning drivers to take extra safety precautions on the roads as the Great American Solar Eclipse takes place in the skies above on Monday August 21st.
The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that approximately 200 million people live within a day's drive of the path of the total eclipse. As result, many sightseers will pack the roadways in hopes of observing the eclipse within the path of totality.
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While Florida is not in the path of the totality, northern portions of the state will experience 90-95% of the eclipse for about two and half minutes.
In an effort to keep traffic moving smoothly during that short-period of time leading up to the afternoon rush hour, the Department of Transportation is urging drivers to keep the following tips in mind:
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Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder during the event.
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Exit the highway to safe location to view and/or photograph the eclipse.
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Don’t take photographs while driving!
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Don’t try to wear opaque eclipse glasses while operating a vehicle.
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Turn your headlights on -- do not rely on your automatic headlights when the eclipse blocks out the sun.
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Watch out for pedestrians along smaller roads. People may be randomly parking and walking alongside the roadside in the hours around the eclipse to get the best view.
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Prepare for extra congestion especially on the interstates in the path on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.
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Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the area of the main path if you can.
Transportation divisions for Georgia and South Carolina have posted detailed information for travelers who may be driving on their roads during on the day of the eclipse.