Following Thursday’s heavy rainfall across North Texas and additional rain expected over the weekend, local emergency officials are reminding drivers about free resources available if they run into trouble on the road.
The Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office Courtesy Patrol is stepping up efforts to assist stranded motorists and clear hazardous roadways. Lynn Self, the program manager for Courtesy Patrol, says his team works closely with law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies to handle minor incidents so emergency crews can focus on major calls.
He says heavy rain brings a sharp increase in roadway hazards, particularly in low-lying areas and construction zones.
"With the inclement weather we had yesterday, we did see a slight elevation in accidents," Self said. "The drainage systems get clogged up with debris, and we'll show up out there trying to do what we can to unclog the drain and definitely assist with motorists traveling through that particular area."
In areas like Interstate 820 on the east side of Tarrant County, heavy downpours can cause water to pool and block the far-right lanes. Courtesy patrol crews deploy traffic control to safely guide drivers around standing water and prevent hydroplaning accidents.
The courtesy patrol operates 10 mobile units daily across two shifts, covering highway routes from early morning through late at night. They also help drivers with things like flat tires, stalled vehicles, minor accidents, fuel delivery..they even help drivers stranded in high water.
Drivers needing help can simply call the 1-800 number on the back of their Texas drivers license. Dispatchers will route the call to the nearest local unit, like TCSO Courtesy Patrol, to respond as quickly as possible.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
