Everyone can relate to this situation. It’s early in the morning, you are commuting to work, and just when you make it to the highway, there is a queue of vehicles stuck in a traffic jam.
This type of situation is never easy to handle. For that reason, we have prepared some recommendations to cope with heavy traffic in the best possible way.
1. Plan Ahead
It is always a good idea to check the state of the road before driving. Also, try to look for alternative routes.
This way, you’ll be able to quickly adapt to the situation and change direction to avoid being stuck in a traffic jam for hours.
2. Be Patient
If you are already in a traffic jam, stressing out is not going to help, so our very first recommendation would be to keep calm and have a little patience.
Maybe you can take the opportunity to relax and listen to some music until the traffic ahead clears.
You should also switch on your emergency lights and brake gradually as you approach the traffic jam.
3. Keep the Distance with Other Drivers
On previous posts, we mentioned the 3-second rule to keep your distance with other drivers. This will prevent any abrupt breakings or even collisions.
Remember to increase the distance under difficult weather conditions or if the asphalt is wet.
4. Stay Alert and Observe What the Other Drivers are Doing
You should be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on the other vehicles.
Your distance should allow you to see several vehicles in front of you so that you can anticipate any movements (forward movement, braking, etc.).
It is also advisable to keep a close eye on your rear-view mirrors, so that you can react and make decisions in time in the event of a rear-end collision.
5. Avoid Dangerous Manoeuvres
Avoid changing lanes continuously and don’t accelerate or brake excessively.
Always stay in your lane and avoid using your horn, which only contributes to making others nervous and creating a stressful atmosphere.
Once you have reached the congestion-free section, do not try to make up for lost time even if traffic seems to be flowing more smoothly.
You should not increase speed abruptly, as the congestion may reappear later. Again, stay calm and adapt to the road and traffic conditions at the time.
6. Stop the Engine
In traffic jams, it is really easy to increase your fuel consumption without even realising it. That’s why you should check how much fuel you have left.
If you think you are going to be sitting in traffic for more than two minutes, you should stop the engine in order to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.
For further advice on how to take care of your vehicle and your tyres, visit Tayaria.com or contact your nearest Tayaria dealer for information about our products.