When you experience traffic jams, it can be frustrating and can make you late for wherever you’re going. There are many different causes of traffic jams; in this article, we take a look at some of the most common reasons you might get stuck in traffic.
Too many cars
One of the most common causes of traffic jams is too many cars on the road. When the roads are overwhelmed with traffic, such as during rush hour, the road junctions, roundabouts, and traffic lights cannot cope, and as a result, traffic builds up, causing traffic jams. These types of traffic jams are usually short-lived and ease as the level of traffic on the road begins to reduce. To avoid this type of traffic jam, try to travel when there are fewer vehicles on the road and avoid rush hour where possible. This is usually around 8 am-9 am and 4.30 pm-6 pm, depending on where you live.
Car crashes
When a crash happens on the road, a lane might need to be closed, or in some situations, the road could be completely shut. This will cause traffic as people may be stuck on the road until a path is cleared to allow them to pass the site of the crash. Other drivers may need to be redirected through alternative roads, which can cause traffic to build up on these roads. Even when the road is open, and traffic is allowed to flow freely, a crash can cause traffic to build up; often, people will drive slowly to look at the crash, which causes a delay for all of the drivers. There is very little you can do to avoid a site of a crash, but if you do pass an accident, don’t slow down to take a look, as this can cause more issues.
Construction
When changes are being made to the road or the pipes that sit below the road, traffic lights may be put in place to manage the flow of traffic. This will be part of a wider traffic management plan that ensures access for all vehicles but also tries to minimise disruption around construction sites. If you are aware of construction that’s going on in your area, try to take an alternative route to avoid the area and reduce the amount of traffic flowing through the temporary traffic management plan. This should speed up your journey and stop you from getting stuck waiting at traffic lights.
Bad weather
Rain, snow and ice can all influence the number of traffic jams you experience. Drivers will take more care and drive slower in these adverse weather conditions. In addition, drivers may alter their routes to avoid potential flood sites and roads that haven’t been gritted. If the weather is bad and hazardous to driving, try to avoid using your car where possible. If this isn’t an option, make sure you take care and leave enough time for your journey. Driving slowly and carefully is the best way to avoid an accident in bad weather.
Drivers not paying attention
Phones are a big distraction for drivers; they cause traffic and accidents. When drivers don’t pay attention, they might fail to move when the traffic lights change or fail to pull out when there is a suitable gap at a roundabout. This can be really frustrating to other drivers around them and can result in people beeping their horns to tell the driver they need to move and pay attention. Never use your mobile phone when driving unless you’re using a suitable hands-free device. If you’re tempted to look at your phone when driving, place it in the boot or turn it off.
Traffic jams are frustrating, but they’re a part of everyday life. Using the tips above, you can avoid traffic and potentially stop yourself from being the cause of a traffic jam. There are also lots of apps you can use, such as Google Maps, that will show you traffic on your route and give you alternative routes if there is a traffic jam along the way. These apps are great for avoiding accidents or construction work and can help you get to your destination quicker, saving you time and fuel.