AASHTO Journal - Idaho Begins New Incident Response Vehicle Program

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) recently launched a brand-new Incident Response Vehicle or IRV program to assist motorists along key highway corridors in the northern part of the state.

[Above photo by ITD]

The IVR will primarily patrol the I-90 corridor, focusing particularly on work zones where limited shoulders and a lack of space have created safety hazards. These high-priority areas include ongoing construction projects at the State Highway 41 Interchange and the upcoming four-lane expansion between Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene. Additionally, the IRV truck will respond to incidents along the US-95 corridor stretching from the Spokane River Bridge to Lancaster Road through Coeur d’Alene.

The agency said this initiative is designed to enhance safety by providing rapid response to disabled vehicles, minor crashes, and other roadside emergencies – allowing motorists to get safely off the highway with minimal delay or risk to other drivers.

The program will offer a wide range of services to assist drivers in need, including helping with flat tire changes, delivering small amounts of fuel for vehicles that have run out, jump-starting dead batteries, and even providing push or pull assistance for vehicles stuck in ditches following a crash or slide-off.

ITD added that this IRV truck is fully equipped with the tools necessary to address minor maintenance issues. It also features lights and signs to alert other drivers to a potential hazard while they work to clear the incident.

“We are excited to bring this vital service to North Idaho,” said Ryan Crabtree, ITD’s business operations manager, in a statement. “By providing this dedicated vehicle, we are not only helping drivers get back on the road more quickly but also improving safety for everyone by reducing the risks associated with stopped vehicles in high-traffic areas.”

The new program builds on the success of a similar initiative in the Treasure Valley region of Southern Idaho, which has been operational since 1997 and has proven to be highly effective in providing timely assistance and reducing congestion on busy roadways.

ITD added that this new IRV endeavor also aims to support law enforcement agencies by helping to alleviate some of their non-emergency calls for traffic issues.

“We look forward to working closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinated response to incidents,” said Crabtree. “This collaboration will help ensure that our highways are safer and that we are meeting the needs of the community.”