Safe Driving Tips for the 2024 Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse is coming on April 8th! Although not all of the country will experience it in totality, it's important to take note of some key safety precautions, especially for those driving.

The path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse. Check out the NASA Eclipse Explorer to learn more about the path and states/people who will be affected.

For those in or passing through Knoxville, TN or East Tennessee, you can expect an 85-90% eclipse, with Nashville and Memphis reaching almost, but not quite, a total eclipse.   So, should you even be driving during the eclipse?  Yes, it's okay to drive, but there are some things you should keep in mind.

1 - Check for Restrictions

Check your state or local government to make sure there are no restrictions.  States like Texas and Indiana have already announced they are limiting size/weight permitted travel during that time.  For more information please contact the your local DMV office in advance.  

2- Fill Your Tank in Case of Heavy Traffic

You never know what these environmental phenomenons will do to traffic, so make sure you have a full tank before you head out for the day! 

3- Don't Look Up

This one might seem obvious, but it can be tempting to get distracted when something exciting is happening in the sky. If you really want to look, make sure to pull over (and wear proper eyewear).

4 - Keep Your Headlights On

During an eclipse, it'll get dark pretty quickly. Make sure your headlights are in auto-mode or manually turn them on to avoid accidents.

This is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044!   Remember that regardless of where you live, your safety and the safety of others is top priority while on the road.  Stay safe out there.