What is the expected duration of a major traffic incident as defined in MUTCD Chapter 6I?

In the context of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) Chapter 6I, a major traffic incident is characterized by its significant impact on roadway operations, typically resulting in extensive delays and the need for considerable resources to manage. The classification of a major incident reflects its potential to disrupt traffic flow for an extended period.

The definition indicates that incidents lasting more than two hours fall into this category, as they usually require a coordinated response involving multiple agencies, thorough assessments, and often complex recovery efforts. This timeframe allows for the complexities that arise from accident investigations, debris clearance, and restoring normal traffic conditions.

Incidents that are resolved in less than an hour would generally be considered minor, while those lasting 1-2 hours might be on the threshold of becoming major, but they do not fully align with the criteria established for major incidents. Options denoting durations of 24 hours or more represent extraordinary situations that rarely occur or may relate to different operational protocols rather than typical traffic incidents as defined in the MUTCD.

Thus, the categorization of a major traffic incident as one lasting "more than 2 hours" is a clear demarcation that helps responders entender the expected level of incident management and resource deployment needed to adequately address the