Indiana Toll Road expands wrong-way driver alert system
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Elkhart-based ITR Concession Co. LLC, which manages the Indiana Toll Road, has activated the fourth installation of its Wrong-Way Driver detection and alert system on the Exit 5 eastbound off-ramp in Calumet. The company says the program is an essential safety measure.
In 2022, the system identified nearly 100 wrong-way drivers and was able to alert and prevent all but two drivers from entering the toll road in the wrong direction.
“Our top priority is safety for all users of the Toll Road,” says ITR CEO Nic Barr. “We’re constantly assessing new systems, technology, and operational techniques to further enhance the safety of our drivers and employees. The Wrong-Way Driver detection system enables us to track wrong-way drivers, help them self-correct, and warn other drivers. It prevents them from getting hurt or hurting others.”
ITR says the other three installations, which were implemented in 2020, led to a 75% decrease in wrong-way drivers from 2021 to 2022 on the Indiana Toll Road.
ITR says the system works by establishing three zones: an initial detection zone, a self-correction zone, and an alert zone. Relying on thermal detectors and high-speed cameras, the system can pinpoint drivers going the wrong way on an entry or exit ramp, which automatically activates self-correction warnings, such as flashing warning lights.
“I’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact of wrong-way driving events and applaud the ITR Concession Company’s initiative and investment in this space,” says Sgt. Ted Bohner, the ISP’s public information officer.
Additionally, ITR says the system immediately notifies the Indiana State Police about the wrong-way driver, and ITRCC’s Traffic Management Center can access live video of the wrong-way driver. The TMC can also send warnings to other toll road drivers via the ITRCC’s Dynamic Message Signs.