Current Status
Preparing for Emergencies
When emergencies like freeway closures or transit disruptions happen, it's good to have a backup plan already in place. Use 511.org's many features to help you prepare your transportation backup plan.
- Transit
In an emergency situation, like a roadway or bridge closure, transit may be the best or only option. Don't wait until the emergency happens to learn what your transit options are for your commute.
If an emergency happens, visit 511.org frequently for the latest on alternate transit routes, additional transit service, relocated transit stops, and shuttle information. Many transit stops may be relocated during an emergency.
- Driving
Consider alternate routes to work — avoid the most heavily-traveled routes. The 511 interactive map provides real-time traffic information in the Bay Area.
Get FasTrak. Bypass the cash lines at toll bridges and save time when it counts with FasTrak. FasTrak can be used at any facility displaying the FasTrak logo in California. Find out how to get started.
Consider car sharing. Car sharing services are ideal for daytime appointments and errands. Now is the time to get your car share plan ready so you have a car in the event of an emergency. Visit the Mobile Apps page to find car sharing companies in the Bay Area.
- Carpooling
Find your match with your local carpooling network. Following an emergency, transit may be disrupted. Explore carpooling now to see how easy it can be and all the choices you have to find matches.
Add riders to your existing carpool. If an emergency occurs, ask your friends, neighbors or co-workers if they would like to join your carpool.
Casual carpool. The Bay Area has many locations where people line up to wait for a carpool destined for major work locations; primarily downtown San Francisco. This can also be an excellent resource during an emergency. Visit the Casual Carpool page for pickup locations so you can plan is advance. (Note: Service is gradually returning after the pandemic; check the SF Casual Carpool site for the status of your nearest pickup spot.)
- Vanpooling
Join a vanpool. Many vanpools have established long-term arrangements, but may have one or two seats available at any given time. In the event of an emergency, these vanpools would welcome a temporary rider to help lower some of their costs.
- Work Accommodations
Ask your employer if you can adjust your work hours or work remotely in the event of an emergency. To avoid commuting during peak times, your workplace may already have a policy in place that allows you to adjust your hours or conduct business from home. Or, if your company has multiple offices or branches, ask your employer if you might be able to work from an office closer to your home.
- Sign Up for Free Transportation Emergency Alerts
Text "511Alert" (no space) to 888-777 to get a free heads up on transportation emergencies. 511ALERT provides alerts about transportation emergencies by text message (SMS) to registered mobile devices. View the 511ALERT page for more information.