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Driving tips for traffic jams

Getting stuck in traffic is unavoidable sometimes, so here's how to be safer about it.

In 2020, American drivers, on average, spent 26 extra hours in their car due to traffic congestion. That's a drop from 2019, but it's still the equivalent of over a day. Help keep the roads safe with these driving tips for traffic jams:

Make smart driving decisions in heavy traffic

Avoid aggressive driving and weaving from lane to lane.
Keep a safe distance, at least three seconds, between you and the vehicle ahead of you. This will help you avoid frequent braking and rear end collisions.
Watch the traffic ahead closely. When cars in front brake, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down gradually before you brake. Be cautious not to brake abruptly.
Stay focused. Keep your mind on driving by avoiding distractions such as eating or using your cell phone.

Follow driving fundamentals in a traffic jam

Use your blinkers when changing lanes or merging. Most state laws require activating blinkers at least 100 feet before merging or turning, but some states require at least 200 feet.
Use your mirrors to monitor the areas around your car. Perform head checks to check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging.
Use the length of the acceleration lane to merge safely into traffic.
Be responsible with technology, and plan ahead. Before you start your trip, check traffic apps on your phone or listen to radio reports to avoid congested areas. If you're worried about encountering heavy traffic during your commute, take time before you leave to map out an alternate route on your GPS.
On narrow lanes, make sure you stay centered in your lane and don't cut corners.

The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with State Farm^® (including State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates). While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. State Farm is not responsible for, and does not endorse or approve, either implicitly or explicitly, the content of any third party sites that might be hyperlinked from this page. The information is not intended to replace manuals, instructions or information provided by a manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional, or to affect coverage under any applicable insurance policy. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.