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Tennessee Dramatically Expands Highway Safety Program with $15 Million Investment

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 17:26 GMT by Chattanooga Times Free Press
      Locales: Tennessee, UNITED STATES

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Tennessee is dramatically expanding its Highway Emergency Response Service (HERS), marking a significant step towards bolstering highway safety and reducing incident-related congestion across the state. Announced Friday by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the expansion represents a $15 million investment and promises to cover a considerably larger portion of the state's crucial interstate and highway network.

For years, HERS teams have been a vital, yet limited, resource on Tennessee roadways. Currently operating within specific zones, the program dispatches trained professionals to respond to accidents, breakdowns, and other incidents impacting traffic flow. The expansion, slated for completion within the next 18 months, aims to extend this vital service to encompass high-incident areas along major corridors like I-40, I-65, and I-75, effectively creating a more comprehensive safety net for travelers.

TDOT Commissioner John Smith emphasized the program's core mission, stating, "The safety of Tennessee drivers is our top priority. HERS plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of incidents on our highways. By expanding this service, we're making a direct investment in the safety and wellbeing of Tennesseans." This sentiment is echoed by lawmakers across the political spectrum, including Senator Sarah Jones, who called the initiative a "common-sense measure that will make a real difference."

Beyond Traffic Control: The Multifaceted Role of HERS Teams

The value of HERS extends beyond simply directing traffic around accident scenes. While traffic management is a key component, HERS teams are equipped to provide immediate, on-scene assistance to motorists. This includes minor vehicle repairs like tire changes and jump-starts, preventing further complications and potentially removing disabled vehicles from active travel lanes quickly. Crucially, they are also trained to administer basic medical aid, offering critical first response until paramedics and other emergency services arrive.

Data from existing HERS deployments paint a clear picture of the program's effectiveness. TDOT reports consistently faster response times to incidents and, perhaps even more importantly, a demonstrable reduction in secondary accidents - collisions that occur because of the initial incident. This is achieved through quick lane closures, effective traffic control, and the rapid removal of hazards. The expanded program aims to replicate and amplify these positive outcomes statewide.

Funding and Future Expansion - A Long-Term Commitment The $15 million expansion will be funded through a blended approach, leveraging both state and federal transportation funds. TDOT is currently in the process of actively recruiting and training additional personnel to staff the expanded service area. This includes specialized training in traffic incident management, vehicle mechanics, and basic emergency medical care. The department is also exploring opportunities to utilize advanced technologies, such as real-time traffic monitoring and predictive analytics, to optimize HERS deployment and response strategies.

Looking ahead, TDOT officials have indicated that this expansion is not a one-time event, but rather a stepping stone towards a broader, long-term commitment to enhancing highway safety throughout Tennessee. Future plans may include the integration of drone technology for incident assessment and the development of a statewide public awareness campaign to educate motorists about the HERS program and how to utilize it effectively.

A Proactive Approach to Highway Safety

The expansion of HERS reflects a growing trend in transportation safety - a shift from reactive emergency response to a more proactive, preventative approach. By addressing incidents quickly and efficiently, HERS teams not only mitigate the immediate dangers posed by accidents and breakdowns, but also reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and ultimately save lives.

TDOT is encouraging all Tennessee motorists to remain vigilant while traveling and to report any roadside incidents or hazards to 911 immediately. The combined efforts of HERS teams, emergency responders, and responsible drivers are essential to creating a safer highway system for everyone. This investment signals that Tennessee is serious about prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of those who travel its roads, and the expanded HERS program is a tangible demonstration of that commitment.