Motorists stranded on Interstate 985 north of Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch now can get help from the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Highway Emergency Response Operators service.

Coverage has been extended 12 miles from Spout Springs to Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville, a move that DOT officials say will increase safety and help traffic flow.

“This was the ideal time to extend the coverage to complement our (Coordinated Highway Assistance & Maintenance Program) truck operators, who respond to maintenance needs and incidents on Interstate 85,” District Engineer Brent Cook said.

Operators for both programs provide support to law enforcement, help in clearing stalled vehicles from travel lanes and aid stranded motorists with minor mechanical problems.

There is no charge for the services.