DOTD upgrades motorist assistance

The program will now utilize extended-cab trucks instead of vans for its Motorist Assistance Patrol (MAP) Program vehicles, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced.

“This is a great enhancement for this program,” said DOTD Secretary Sherri H. Lebas, P.E. “These new trucks will be able to access more locations along the roadway and provide additional safety for the public and our drivers while at the same time helping to reduce delays on the interstate.”

The first of the new trucks have been activated in Baton Rouge to assist stranded motorists. Additionally, the trucks will be able to perform and maneuver over rough terrain and in construction zones.

The MAP Program assists motorists, improves traffic flow and reduces traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles, while at the same time, providing safety and comfort to those stranded.

MAP provides multiple patrols in four locations across the state.

In the Baton Rouge area, three trucks patrol (plus one backup) I-10 from LA 415 to LA 42 (Highland Road), I-110 from I-10 to US 61 (Airline Highway), and I-12 from I-10 to LA 447 (Walker) seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m. One tow truck is utilized for the I-10 Mississippi River Bridge crossing weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

More information is available at www.dotd.la.gov, email dotdcs@la.gov, or call DOTD’s Customer Service Center at (225) 379-1232 or 1-877-4LADOTD (1-877-452-3683). Business hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Motorists can access up-to-date travel information by dialing 511 or by visiting www.511la.org. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).