For a rollover on a two-lane highway with a 55 mph limit, which traffic-control measure should be requested?

• A. Local police to post detour routes 2 miles away
• B. State troopers to set up with lights flashing 500 yards in each direction
• C. Ambulance to stage at the scene
• D. Fire department to extinguish a vehicle fire

Answer: (B)

When traffic control needs to be established quickly on a two-lane highway, the priority is to provide an early, highly visible warning to drivers in both directions and create a safe buffer for responders. Having state police position with flashing lights about 500 yards in each direction accomplishes this by making approaching vehicles aware of the incident well before they reach the scene, prompting them to slow down and proceed with caution. This setup helps prevent secondary crashes caused by rubbernecking or sudden braking, keeps the crash area safer for responders and patients, and buys time for the scene to be stabilized.

Detouring or routing decisions are important but come after establishing initial traffic control. An ambulance staging at the scene or fire personnel handling a vehicle fire addresses response needs, but they don’t provide the critical, proactive traffic-warning and scene protection that law enforcement lights do. Positioning the warning vehicles 500 yards out gives drivers enough notice at 55 mph to slow smoothly, reducing risk and keeping the incident scene safe.