When are we most likely to experience fog delays?

Our “Fog Season” is typically considered to be between November and February.

Controlling Traffic In The Fog

The Causeway Police are experienced in handling traffic during periods of fog. Procedures vary depending upon fog density, time of day, and coverage area.  We appreciate motorists’ desire to arrive at their destinations on time and the frustration of being delayed.  Although we regret this inconvenience, our goal and responsibility is to have you and other motorists safely travel the Causeway Bridge.

Most commuters have, at some time, approached the bridge wondering why fog restrictions are in effect when they see slight or no traces of fog.  Being a twenty-four mile bridge over water presents unique and varied weather conditions.  Fog is often patchy and covers only portions of the bridge.

How These Decisions Are Made, Who Makes Them?

The Causeway Police always maintain a ranking officer on duty.  He verifies reduced visibility and fog density.  When visibility falls below specified thresholds, he has the authority to put specific restrictions in place.  Please note that fog always reduces visibility.  Even though it might not be sufficiently dense to warrant traffic restrictions, motorists should reduce speed, put headlights on low beam, and drive carefully.

Hints For Driving In Fog

Stay just close enough to the vehicle in front of you to see its taillights. Allow enough distance to stop safely. Remember roadways may be wet, causing stopping distance to increase.

Be sure your heater/defroster, windshield wipers, and all headlights/taillights are working before entering the bridge.

Single Lane Restrictions

Single lane restrictions are used on the bridge span opposite peak travel and are also used on both spans during non-peak travel times. Traffic cones are placed on the center line markers, closing the left lane to all vehicles except those  that encounter vehicle failure and can not make it to a crossover. Vehicles are to use the right lane, passing is prohibited.

In the event of vehicle failure when single lane fog restrictions are in effect: Do not stop in the right lane. Attempt to make it to a crossover (located approximately 3-1/2 miles apart). If this is not possible, then turn on emergency lights and pull over in left lane close to the railing. Move a safe distance to the rear of the stalled vehicle. Please stand on walk­way of the left lane and flag oncoming vehicles until Causeway Police arrive.

Rolling Convoy Restrictions

Rolling convoys are used on the span of peak travel, south bound in the a.m. and north bound in the p.m.  Rolling convoys utilize both lanes of the bridge span. An emergency vehicle will lead vehicles out onto the bridge, from the toll plaza, setting a steady pace.  To aid in traffic flow drivers should not pass or change lanes.

In the event of vehicle failure when convoy restrictions are in effect: Attempt to make it to a crossover (located approximately 3-1/2 miles apart). If this is not possible, then turn on emergency lights and pull over in right lane close to the railing. Move a safe distance to the rear of the stalled vehicle. Please stand on walk­way of the right lane and flag approaching vehicles until Causeway Police arrive.

How We Notify Commuters

Causeway Police use several methods to inform motorists of fog conditions.  While at home or work, you may check current bridge conditions by accessing the Causeway’s web site at: “www.thecauseway.com”.  Also, most local television stations routinely call and get the latest conditions.  When approaching the bridge, note the messages displayed on the message signs and/or tune to our radio station, 1700 AM.

Message Signs and Conditions

To minimize inconvenience to drivers, police lead convoys across the bridge.  Police will drive in the middle of the roadway, causing motorists to pace the police vehicle and drive at a safe speed.  This method has been very successful at saving time and preventing accidents.

It’s always easier to see in the fog with headlights on low beam.  This helps reduce the glare from light reflected by the fog.

When traffic cones have been placed in the middle of the roadway, drivers should stay in the right lane only.  This insures a steady traffic flow and eliminates dangerous lane changes.