What should you do when driving in heavy traffic?

When driving in heavy traffic, maintaining a safe following distance and being patient is crucial for ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road. A safe following distance allows for adequate reaction time in case the vehicle ahead suddenly stops or slows down. It helps prevent rear-end collisions, which are common in congested traffic conditions.

Being patient is equally important as heavy traffic can be frustrating, but aggressive driving behaviors like frequent lane switching can lead to accidents. They increase the risk of sideswiping other vehicles or creating confusion among drivers, which can exacerbate the traffic situation. In addition, tailgating or driving aggressively to merge ahead can escalate tensions on the road and lead to dangerous situations.

Engaging in activities like texting distracts you from the road, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Defensive driving and a calm demeanor are key elements in navigating heavy traffic effectively.