If you live in Indianapolis, you already know—once May hits, everything changes.
The Indy 500 brings a lot of energy to the city. That’s part of what makes it great. But it also means heavier traffic, more visitors, and a lot more unpredictability on the roads.
A few simple things can make a real difference this month.
Plan for delays
Traffic around downtown, Speedway, and major highways gets backed up quickly. Give yourself more time than usual and try not to rush.
Expect drivers who don’t know the area
Race month brings a lot of out-of-town visitors. That means missed exits, sudden lane changes, and slower reactions. Staying patient and leaving space helps everyone.
Limit distractions
It sounds basic, but it matters more this time of year. Phones, GPS, even just the excitement of everything going on—keep your focus on the road.
Watch for more pedestrians and cyclists
Events, bars, and downtown gatherings mean more foot traffic than usual. Be especially careful at intersections and crosswalks.
Have a plan if you’re going out
Between race events, concerts, and downtown crowds, rideshare or a designated driver is the safest move if alcohol is involved.
Helpful local resources during race month:
- Traffic updates and road conditions: Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT)
- Event schedules, travel tips, and city info: Visit Indy
- Weather updates (important for race weekend plans): National Weather Service
For real-time traffic updates and closures, INDOT’s 511 system is especially helpful.
If something happens
Even when you’re careful, accidents can still happen—especially in high-traffic months like this.
If you’re involved in a crash:
- Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if needed
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Exchange information and take photos
- Get checked out medically, even if you feel fine
If you need more guidance, we’ve put together helpful resources here:
- https://www.2keller.com/personal-injury/car-accidents/
- https://www.2keller.com/personal-injury/truck-accidents/
- https://www.2keller.com/personal-injury/wrongful-death/
Race month is one of the best times to be in Indianapolis—just worth slowing down and staying aware while you enjoy it.
Indy 500: By the Numbers
Race month in Indianapolis isn’t just busy—it’s one of the biggest annual traffic and tourism spikes in the country.
- 300,000+ fans attend Indy 500 race day, making it the largest single-day sporting event in the world
- The Indianapolis Motor Speedway can host 350,000+ people at full capacity
- The event generates $500M+ in economic impact each May for Indiana alone
- Total annual impact from the Speedway is estimated at $1B+ statewide
- Visitors come from all 50 states and dozens of countries, turning Indy into a global destination each May
What it means locally:
More people. More traffic. More unfamiliar drivers on the road. And a city moving at a very different pace for the entire month.
Stay alert out there—it’s a different Indianapolis in May.
If you or someone you know is injured, Keller & Keller is here to help you figure out what comes next.
Injured? Call 1-800-2-KELLER.
