The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a 24-mile bridge that connects Metairie and Mandeville. It is the world’s second-longest continuous bridge over water, and it is popular with both commuters and tourists.
While the Causeway is an engineering wonder, driving across it can be risky. The bridge is long and narrow, with no shoulders for drivers to pull over in an emergency. Furthermore, fog frequently forms on the Causeway, reducing vision significantly.
Here are some safety tips for drivers crossing the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
- Check the weather forecast before you leave. If there is fog in the forecast, postpone your travel or choose a different route.
- Allow plenty of time for your drive. The causeway can be congested, and crossing can take longer than expected, especially in severe weather.
- Stay alert to your surroundings. Keep an eye on the other drivers on the bridge and be ready to react if needed.
- Use your headlights even during the daytime. This will allow other cars to see you, particularly in fog.
- Follow the speed limit. Speeding is unsafe on any bridge but particularly hazardous on the Causeway.
- Do not tailgate. Tailgating allows you less time to react in the event of an emergency.
- Be ready for an emergency. Ensure you have a fully charged cell phone and know the location of the bridge’s emergency call boxes.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE TROUBLE ON THE CAUSEWAY, HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
- Pull to the right shoulder. If you can, pull over at a crossover. If no crossovers exist, pull over to the right shoulder and activate your hazard lights.
- Exit your vehicle at the rear. This will allow you to stay visible to other drivers.
- Direct oncoming cars into the left lane. Use hand signals to alert other drivers that you are having problems.
- Call for assistance. Use your cell phone to contact 911 or the Causeway Commission.
Following these safety tips may help ensure a safe crossing of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
Here are some more tips that can be useful:
- Take extra precautions if driving a massive vehicle like a truck or RV. These vehicles may be more challenging to control in windy weather.
- If driving with children, ensure they are securely restrained in the car or booster seats.
- You’re driving a rented car and may be comfortable with the controls before getting on the bridge.
- If you are uncomfortable driving on the Causeway, choose a different route.
These procedures can help you have a safe and pleasurable trip across Lake Pontchartrain.
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