Few things are more frustrating than getting stuck in a massive traffic jam, or trying to get some where when the traffic is really busy. Whether it’s caused by a road accident, road works, or general rush hour traffic, driving in heavytraffic is a difficult skill to master and requires all your concentration.

Here are 10 tips for dealing with heavy traffic.

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If you get caught in a Heavy Traffic follow these guidelines

 

1. Slow Down

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When there are more vehicles than usual on the road it will naturally slow you down. While you might be tempted to try to drive faster. This type of driving can cause an accident. Use your observation skills and proceed with caution – situations can come out of nowhere. 

 

2. Don’t Weave

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Don’t weave in and out of other cars; rapidly switching lanes to try to get ahead of the traffic is very dangerous. More often than not, lane changes are made quickly and very late with little or no observation. Other drivers can’t predict what you’re going to do, so they may change lanes as you’re approaching. Likewise, you don’t know what other cars are doing, so the safest move is to stay in one lane unless it’s necessary to move.

 

3. Use Signals Correctly

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When there are lots of other drivers around, it’s important you let them know what you’re doing. While you shouldn’t be weaving in and out of lanes, sometimes you do have to get over. Letting people know what you’re doing is not only safe, but will also make it easier for you when a driver lets you in front of them. Pay attention to what other vehicles are likely to do. Try to anticipate their actions. 

 

4. Plan Ahead

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Proper planning can keep you from having to deal with heavy traffic all together. A few variables to keep in mind include:

• Weather – inclement weather (snow, rain, fog) can all lead to delays.

• Road Works – Make yourself aware of where roadworks are. Know the areas with road works so you can avoid them where necessary and get to where you need to be safely. 

• Listen to the Radio - local radio stations will often have traffic updates to help you plan your journey.

• Events – Festivals, Football and sporting game days, local events can cause heavier than normal traffic.

• Time of day – Simply planning around rush hour (AM & PM) will lead to a much more enjoyable commute.

 

5. Remove Distractions

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It seems obvious, but it still needs to be stated – it is against the law to use your mobile phone to  text and drive, even if you are stationary. Stay focused on the road at all times. This is even more important when driving in heavy traffic. Just because you’re moving slower doesn’t make driving less dangerous. 

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6. Know Your Stopping Distances

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In heavy traffic your stopping distance is your thinking distance so continually think about your reaction to other vehicles. In normal traffic, it is recommended to keep 2 seconds between you and the driver in front of you to maintain a safe distance and allow you time to react. 

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7. Anticipate and Plan Properly

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Always expect the unexpected. Just because you’re practicing safe driving doesn’t mean that everyone around you is. Sometimes it’s malicious, sometimes it’s just a mistake. Either way, being ready to avoid others is crucial in heavy traffic situations. Try to anticipate what actions other vehicles may take. 

 

8. Keep Calm

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The worst thing you can do while driving in traffic is lose your patience and get angry. Getting angry on the road can lead to aggressive and irresponsible driving, putting everyone on the road in danger. So stay as calm as possible. 

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9. Don’t Rubberneck

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Often when passing the scene of an accident that may have caused the heavy traffic, it is common to take your eyes off the road and stare at the accident as you drive by. If this is the case, don’t let that change your focus. Keep your eyes on the drivers around you and road in front of you. Don’t turn your head to stare at an accident that isn’t involving you

 

10. Take a Break if Necessary

If you have been stuck in heavy traffic for a considerable time, you may find yourself getting anxious, angry, or impatient......so take a break. Pull off at an exit and stretch your legs and take a few deep breaths. The extra minute or two you take will make a world of a difference.

 

Hopefully armed with these tips, you can conquer the next heavy traffic scenario you’re faced with. Remember, getting to your destination safe is the number one priority for all drivers on the road.