How to Avoid “Phantom Traffic Jams”​

Created By RISC | 2 years ago

Last modified date : 2 years ago

If you’re planning a trip during the upcoming holiday you may well encounter jams.​

But have you ever wondered why, even without traffic lights, intersections, or accidents, traffic will sometimes slow to a crawl?​

These "phantom traffic jams" are caused when a vehicle slows down or abruptly changing lanes. The cars behind brake or slow, creating a chain effect.​

But you can help avoid phantom traffic jams:​
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front to avoid unnecessary braking​
• Keep a constant speed while driving​
• Don’t suddenly change lanes​
• Don’t cut off other vehicles.
• Don’t driving on the pavement

Story by Woraporn Poonyakanok, Senior Research Engineer Acting Head of Resilience Research Hub at RISC​