What classification applies to an incident that exceeds 2 hours in duration?

An incident that lasts for over 2 hours falls under the classification of "Major." This designation reflects the significant impact such an extended incident can have on traffic flow, safety, and resource allocation. Typically, incidents of this length may involve serious crashes, hazardous materials spills, or other situations that require extensive response efforts and lingering impacts on the surrounding area.

Classifying an incident as major helps agencies prioritize resources, coordinate responses effectively, and communicate with the public regarding expected delays and necessary actions. In contrast, shorter incidents, generally categorized as minor or intermediate, do not usually prompt the same level of concern or require the same degree of resource commitment. The critical classification typically pertains to incidents that pose immediate threats to life or severe hazardous conditions and often demand the highest level of response. Therefore, the classification of "Major" is appropriate for incidents exceeding 2 hours due to their potential for widespread disruption and the need for a comprehensive response plan.