The 511 system is taking on some new characteristics that may generate new interest in the travel information line. The following was crafted to help you answer some of the common questions about 511.
Why is WSDOT implementing 511 when the current numbers (1-800) seem to work ok?
As people get used to it, 511 will reduce the time necessary to get travel information. Not only is more extensive incident and construction delay information available on 511 than the current hotline numbers, but 511 is more closely aligned with the wealth of information that's available on WSDOT’s Web site. Another benefit is that 511 provides traffic congestion information around the clock (24/7).
511 can’t understand me. Why not and what’s being done about it?
The voice activation system of 511 is so sensitive that it not only picks up voices, but background noise too. So callers with their radios on, in a room with other conversations going on, or in vehicles may not be understood.
If rolling up the windows or turning down the music doesn’t help, another option is for callers to use the touch-tone option now available on 511. Callers simply press the “pound” sign once in the system and are directed which buttons to push for the information wanted.
No matter what I do, or how I say it, I can’t get the 511 system to give me information about State Route 16. Why?
There are two menus available to get information about traffic on 511.
- “Incidents” – provides information about roadway conditions and construction anywhere in Washington State.
- “Traffic” – gives real-time traffic information for highways in Seattle or I-5 in central Tacoma only.
Sometimes callers don’t realize they’re in the Traffic menu and ask for highways that aren’t available through that menu. An integrated menu selection is being tested in the touch-tone option of 511, which takes the guesswork out of which menu to pick.
Why are there two separate menus for traffic conditions?
What are the different types of information that can be found on 511?
511 offers information for a variety of travel topics, including:
- Washington State Ferries
- Mountain pass conditions
- Roadway conditions and construction information anywhere in the state
- Real-time traffic information for Seattle highways and I-5 in Central Tacoma
- 511 for Oregon
In addition, through the voice-activated side of 511, callers can get additional information such as:
- Express lane status
- Public Transit telephone numbers
- Passenger rail telephone numbers
- Airline telephone numbers
- Travel telephone numbers for adjacent states, provinces, and cities
- Weather
Is it true the toll-free numbers are going away?
No. The 1-800 numbers currently used for obtaining highway, ferry and mountain pass information will not go away, but callers using the 1-800 numbers will be re-routed to the 511 system. Here’s how the message may sound, “ You are now being transferred to the WSDOT 511 system. In the future please dial 511 directly.”
Why keep the 1-800 numbers?
The toll free numbers have coverage throughout North America, so callers all over the country can get travel information about Washington State (we are setting up a direct connection between the WSDOT and Oregon DOT 511 systems). Also, the 1-800 numbers have been in existence for a long time and callers who have always used that number may need time to adapt.
Is it safe to call 511 while driving my car?
Please be careful using a cell phone when driving a car. If possible, have a passenger make the call. If you must call while driving, try using the voice activated part of the 511 system so you can keep your eyes on the road. If you find you are getting distracted, please find a safe place to pull over and get off the roadway. The safest place on a freeway is on the shoulder on a the exit ramp close to the stop sign, because then cars traveling by you are slowing down to stop.
Nationwide research has shown that there are many things that can distract a driver, such as food, music, children, passengers, cell phones, etc. So be careful and don’t let yourself get distracted.
Where can people get more information?
WSDOT’s Website offers more information about 511 including the background, statistics, and where it works.
Comments or Suggestions?
We want to hear from you. We know the system isn’t perfect but we think it’s getting better all of the time. We credit the improvements to the incorporation of your ideas. Let us know what you think. Email wsdot511@wsdot.wa.gov