As urbanisation drives many to the cities and vehicle ownership increases, road users have to prepare themselves with the skills and attitude required to drive in heavy traffic much more often. Arrive Alive provides tips to consider when driving in heavy traffic.
Heavy traffic could be caused by numerous factors, including:
- Usual rush-hour/peak-hour traffic.
- Heavy traffic after delays caused by roadworks, road closures, and road crashes.
- Environmental factors such as snow, mist, rockfalls and flooding cause road closures.
- Temporary closures are caused by traffic and police enforcement.
- Increased travel during holidays, the festive season, and Easter.
“Without the right attitude and driving techniques in these conditions, driving can become very dangerous. In this section, we will offer advice on how road users can be safer when driving in heavy and congested traffic.”
Following distances and heavy traffic:
- During heavy traffic, keep a safe distance [buffer zone] from other vehicles and give yourself ample response time by slowing your speed.
- The following distance of 3 seconds would in most circumstances be a safe following distance.
- If you maintain a safe following distance you’ll have time to react to sudden braking by the cars ahead of you or any erratic driving you might encounter.
- Be attentive to traffic ahead of you – when cars in the front brake, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down gradually before you brake. Be cautious not to brake abruptly.
- Cautious driving and a safe following distance will also help you avoid frequent braking and rear-end collisions.
- During the holidays you may encounter several slower vehicles towing trailers and caravans. Be extra cautious in maintaining a safe following distance, especially when driving in heavy winds.
Compiled by Justine Fortuin
