What's The Deal With Those Emergency Route Signs in Maine?

You may have noticed "Emergency Route" signs near local I-95 ramps in Maine.

But, what's their purpose? And, what should you know about them?

According to the Bangor Daily News, their purpose is to direct you to the next interstate exit.

The newspaper reported that in the event that the interstate was ever blocked by an accident (or poor weather, or landing B52s, or whatever), this would prevent people from sitting in a miles-long traffic backup.

This permanent solution also prevents first responders and road workers from diverting their attention from the accident (or other situations) to put up temporary detour signs.

The green signs with white lettering are marked "Emergency Route," and they either have a single letter or double letters. Signs with a single letter lead north, while the double-letter signs lead south.

If it becomes necessary to use a detour route, the Department of Transportation will use pink signs to lead drivers to the right detour. Additionally, the MDOT electronic road signs will also be used to direct drivers to the correct route.

Currently, in addition to their placement in the Augusta area, there are also signs from Richmond to Medway.

Eventually, they will stretch the entire length of the interstate.

Yes, your phone's GPS option will probably notice a traffic backup and present you with alternative routes, but these signs provide you with the same information without requiring you to mess with your GPS.