Do you use the 511 System?

[Mark Sedenquist]

I am interested in your experiences with the 511 - Traffic Information Service that exists (in theory) throughout the USA. In some places, like the San Francisco Bay area, one can get access to some pretty sophisticated data. Here in Las Vegas, the information seems pretty limited.

Here was a response from Moderator Bob:
I haven't used it in other states yet, but I have used it here in Arizona more than once and received up-to-date information on highway conditions that proved valuable (calls are routed to ADOT). Last week, I called to see how the fires were affecting traffic on I-17 as I left for my Utah trip. You seem to have to inquire specifically about each road you are interested in -- I didn't notice that there was an "alert" system for closures (such as the unexpected one I discovered for SR264 at Tuba City). Maybe there is and I just wasn't listening for that option, or even if AZ doesn't have that feature, perhaps other states do. Anyway, I use it and like it. I'll have to call back and see if they do have that "alert" notification option

If you dial 511 in your home town -- I would really like to know kinds of road condition information is available to you. And further, whether or not this is a help or a hinderance on the road.

Thanks,

Mark