If you have ever driven when the roads are busy, you know how frustrating it can be. Congested traffic makes the entire trip more hazardous for you. You have to watch for stop-and-go traffic, people with road rage and those who aren’t paying attention.
Traffic jams do increase the risk of certain kinds of car accidents, such as rear-end collisions or side-swipe accidents. If construction zones or saturation are factors, then crashes may be even more likely.
What is traffic saturation?
Traffic saturation, which is when there are more vehicles than the roads can support, is a kind of congestion that clogs up roads at almost any time of the day. If the roads can only support 100,000 people at a time and there are 150,000 trying to use them, then you’re going to see exits backed up and people frustrated with seemingly constant difficulties getting from place to place.
Traffic saturation is frustration and a common cause of road rage, which occurs when a driver gets angry and starts driving recklessly. This rage may end up causing a serious crash.
Why does construction play a role in congestion?
Construction has the potential to slow down traffic when lanes are blocked or workers are stopping drivers. If the roads are already congested, this may even lead to a stand-still. Vehicles could run out of gas, or people could be reckless and try to use the shoulder to get to their destinations.
How can you manage in a traffic jam?
If you are dealing with a traffic jam, it’s time to think about how to get out of it safely. While you’re in the traffic jam, maintain a speed that is appropriate for the conditions. Stay off your phone or other electronic devices.
If you do approach an exit, it may be a good idea to take it. Once you get off the highway, you can use your GPS or map technology to reroute yourself. If the highway is the only option, make sure you have enough gas, a little food and some water, so you can travel patiently to your destination.
