KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – The Tennessee Department of Transportation has expanded its rural service patrol program, increasing roadway coverage across Tennessee as officials work to improve safety and response times on rural roads.
According to TDOT spokesperson Mark Nagi, the expanded program is designed to provide additional assistance in areas where crashes and emergencies can occur far from major highways or urban centers.
The announcement comes as East Tennessee drivers continue voicing concerns about dangerous driving behaviors, particularly drivers failing to stop at stop signs and motorists crossing lane markings on two-lane roads.
Residents Report Common Safety Concerns
Janice Lombardi said one of the biggest dangers she encounters is drivers disregarding stop signs.
“People not stopping at stop signs,” Lombardi said. “Some do not even tap the brakes. At a three or four way stop everybody has to stop. It is not optional.”
Another resident, Mark Long, said drivers crossing lane lines remain a major concern on rural roadways.
“People who can’t keep their vehicle on their side of the road is one that bothers me,” Long said. “If you can’t keep your vehicle between the white line and yellow line, especially on two lane roads, then stay home. Take a driving course before trying again. Staying in your lane avoids accidents.”
Both violations can significantly increase the risk of crashes, particularly on narrow rural roads where motorists often travel at highway speeds.
Expanded Service Patrol Coverage
Nagi said TDOT recently expanded its rural service patrol operations to cover more areas, including every interstate mile in East Tennessee.
“We’ve recently been able to expand our rural service program,” Nagi said. “That means that in East Tennessee alone each and every one of our interstate mileages is being able to be covered by these folks.”
The program provides assistance to stranded motorists, helps clear roadway hazards and supports emergency responders during incidents.
Nagi noted that TDOT personnel have frequently served in a first-responder role when arriving before emergency crews.
“And remember, it’s been times when our TDOT folks have ended up working as first responders,” Nagi said. “So, they’re prepared for all sorts of different things and we’re really glad that they’re out there.”
Safety Reminder for Drivers
TDOT officials emphasized that stopping at stop signs and staying within lane boundaries are not just safety recommendations but requirements under Tennessee law.
Transportation officials encourage motorists to remain attentive, obey traffic controls and avoid distractions while driving, especially on rural roads where emergency assistance may take longer to arrive.
The expanded rural service program is intended to improve safety, reduce incident response times and provide additional support for travelers across Tennessee’s rural transportation network.
