Stay calm in traffic

Traffic jams are causing unfortunately part of everyday life, whether for your journeys to the work or as the summer holidays approach. In high-traffic areas, they are often unavoidable. These moments can be stressful, causing you to lose time and sometimes even become dangerous if we don't remain vigilant.

There are many tips to handle heavy traffic, but it's just as important to know what What not to do when you're stuck in a traffic jam. By avoiding common mistakes, you will ride safer, you will protect your car and you'll help make the road smoother for everyone.

Most traffic jams are not a surprise: they follow well-known patterns, especially in the rush hour. With a little preparation, you can often avoid worst traffic jams. Here's how:

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  Adapt your schedule: if possible, leave a little earlier or later than rush hour. Teleworking on certain days can also help.
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  Choose alternative routes: sometimes a slightly longer journey is ultimately faster and relieves the main roads.
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  Use real-time navigation apps: Google Maps, Waze and others show you traffic conditions, alternative routes and even nearby services (charging stations, petrol stations...).
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  Plan ahead and slow down early: As soon as you see brake lights, slow down gently and look for another route before you get stuck.

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  Stay calm

Anger will not make the traffic move faster. On the contrary, it can push you to take unnecessary risks. Take a deep breath and be patient.

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  Stay Alert

Even at low speeds, vigilance is essential. Frequent stops and starts can cause collisions if you are distracted.

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  Stay on the road and the marked lanes

Do not try to get around traffic jams by taking forbidden paths (such as the emergency lane) or unplanned paths, unless indicated by the authorities. It's dangerous, often illegal and it complicates traffic even more.

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  Leave room for vehicles that fit in

Welcome cars coming from back roads. Smooth insertion helps improve circulation for all.

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  Keep a safe distance

With sudden braking, this is the best way to avoid accidents.

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  Don't call

Even if traffic is slow, using the phone is still dangerous. You may not see that traffic starts or stops.

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  Obey the speed limit when traffic resumes

Once the traffic jam is over, don't rush to make up for lost time. This is useless and can lead to accidents or fines.

The traffic jams are frustrating, but they are also often predictable and manageable. By planning a little ahead and avoiding behaviours dangerous, you will reduce your stress, protect your car and help make the road safer for everyone.