Drivers urged to update commercial GPS units to assure accurate navigation
PADUCAH, Ky. (Jan. 27, 2020) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has installed additional signage at the Interstate 69 Mayfield Exit 21 Interchange in Graves County aimed at reducing safety issues created by wayward trucks near the end of the U.S. 45-Bypass. The latest supplementary signage is in addition to thermal lane markings aimed at directing commercial trucks through the interchange.
When the new interchange opened in 2018, it altered the way southbound traffic connects to the south leg of I-69 and the remaining section of the Purchase Parkway. Traffic now moves to the left to continue southward along the Purchase Parkway to the Kentucky-Tennessee state line at Fulton. Taking the ramp to the right takes travelers to the remaining section of the U.S. 45-Bypass at the southwest edge of Mayfield. Commercial trucks arriving at the intersection with U.S. 45 often create safety issues when they try to make U-turns. Wayward trucks have contributed to a number of traffic crashes and caused damage to driveways where they attempt to turn around.
In 2018, KYTC engineers anticipated some minor issues until GPS manufacturers updated map data to reflect the changes to the reconstructed interchange. However, KYTC District 1 Chief Engineer Kyle Poat says the problem has persisted even after KYTC personnel proactively asked national companies that provide data to GPS unit manufacturers to review their maps for the site.
“We think some of the safety issues are due to cross-country truckers and travelers using GPS units that contain outdated information,” said Poat. “We strongly encourage truck drivers and other travelers to update their GPS map data several times a year. Truckers should use GPS units designed for commercial trucks instead of cell phone mapping systems designed for passenger vehicle drivers. All drivers should carefully observe roadway signage to assure the GPS is taking you where you want to go.”
Graves County Sheriff Jon Hayden is among those who have had to deal with the ongoing safety issues created by wayward trucks.
“We’ve spent considerable time responding to reports of commercial trucks stuck in the median and blocking the roadway near the end of the U.S. 45-Bypass,” Sheriff Hayden said. “We’re generally out there a few times each week. We’ve had drivers, especially SEMI drivers, say they were confused and ended up in the wrong place. We’re optimistic the additional signage and other efforts by our transportation folks will help, but we need drivers to do their part by upgrading their GPS units.”
Kyle Poat noted that there have been surprisingly few problems with the new I-24/I-69 Interchange just a few miles up the road at Calvert City in Marshall County.
Drivers can get information on upgrading their GPS navigation units by going to the manufacturer’s website.