Want to avoid traffic nightmares? Call 511

In an effort to steer motorists around traffic jams, the state has started a 511 phone line for updated traffic reports.

By dialing 511, travelers throughout Tennessee now can access accurate, real-time road and weather conditions, including traffic jams, construction and road closures.

Tennessee is the 24th state to launch a 511 system since the initiative began in 2000. The 511 service is updated every 10 minutes.

?We hope Tennesseans and visitors alike will begin to rely on this remarkable new technology whenever they travel around our state,? said Gov. Phil Bredesen, who announced the new system Monday with Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely. ?This is a convenient informational tool that can help drivers avoid the frustration of traffic tie-ups and, more importantly, make their travels safer.?

The Tennessee Department of Transportation is providing 511 and the Web site www.TN511.com as a public service. There is no charge to call, although cellphone users will be charged their normal minutes.

The 511 phone system uses voice-activated technology and touch tone technology. When you dial 511, the system will greet you and will present you with a menu of options. Here?s what you?ll hear on the main menu:

? To hear up-to-date traffic information, press 1 or say ?traffic conditions.? You can then request a highway or region.

? For weather conditions, press 2 or say ?weather.?

? To transfer to a 511 system in a neighboring state, press 3 or say ?other states.?

? To leave a comment with your feedback on this system, press 4 or say ?comment.?

? For assistance on using this system, press 5 or say ?help.?