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The most recent statistics released by the Federal Highway Safety Administration (FHWA) showed that the vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in the United States in 2016 exceeded 3.2 trillion miles. This is the highest VMT figure since the statistics were first tracked and was the fifth consecutive year in which VMT increased.

Despite the fact that there are more safety devices on vehicles, more drivers and passengers are dying on roads and highways than prior years. FHWA estimates that 40,200 people died in accidents involving motor vehicles in 2016, which is a 6 percent increase over 2015.

The New York Times reported in 2017 that the increase in VMT is the result of the effect of a strong U.S. economy. More people are taking advantage of this economy by going on driving vacations.

In Florida, we are already seeing an increase in traffic. Our “busy” season has begun as we see the trailers arriving with vehicles from the north, and it is becoming more difficult to maneuver in heavy traffic.

Top Driver driving schools recommends the following for driving on congested roadways:

1. Slow Down

When there are more cars than usual on the road, it will naturally slow you down. While you might be tempted to try to drive faster to avoid delays, that can cause a crash. Always remember to proceed with caution; obstacles can come out of nowhere. Keeping your eyes peeled at all times will keep you safe. 

2. Don’t Weave

Don’t weave in and out of other cars; rapidly switching lanes to try to get ahead of the traffic is very dangerous. Other drivers can’t predict what you’re going to do, so they may change lanes as you’re approaching. Likewise, you don’t know what other cars are doing, so the safest move is to stay in one lane unless it’s necessary to move. 

3. Use Indicators

At times, it seems like many drivers don’t use signals on the road. When there are lots of other drivers around, it’s important you let them know what you’re doing. While you shouldn’t be weaving in and out of lanes, sometimes you do have to get over. Letting people know what you’re doing is not only safe, but will also make it easier for you when a driver lets you in front of them.

If you are changing lanes or turning, remember that almost all states have a 100-foot (typically 5 second) limit for turning on your blinker. 

4. Plan Ahead

Proper planning can keep you from having to deal with heavy traffic all together. A few variables to keep in mind include:

• Weather – inclement weather can lead to backups.
• Road Construction – Know the areas with road construction so you can avoid them and keep your trip shorter and more enjoyable.
• Events – Festivals, game days, holiday parades, etc. can cause heavier than normal traffic.
• Time of day – Simply planning around rush hour will lead to a much more enjoyable commute.

Even if you do plan for all of these, you can still run into traffic. That’s why it’s best to always have an alternate route to your destination.  

5. Remove Distractions

No one should ever text and drive. Stay focused on the road at all times. This is even more important when driving in heavy traffic. Just because you’re moving slower doesn’t make driving less dangerous. A large change occurs when moving from a slower speed to a dead halt. 

The average text message takes your eyes off the road for five seconds. With a lot of other cars on the road, this small amount of time is enough to cause a major crash. Avoid sending texts, checking emails and even changing radio stations when in traffic. If you do have to send a text or make a call, get off the road first. 

6. Know Appropriate Distances

It’s recommended to keep 3 seconds between you and the driver in front of you. A good way to measure this is with steady objects. Begin counting when the car in front of you passes a light pole, and if you get to three before you pass the same light pole, you’re in the safe zone.

Keep your eyes open for brake lights as well. If the driver in front of you starts to slow down, the same distance should be kept. 

7. Drive Proactively

Always expect the unexpected. Just because you’re practicing safe driving doesn’t mean that everyone around you is. 

8. Stay Cool

The worst thing you can do while driving in traffic is lose your patience and get angry. Getting angry on the road can lead to aggressive and irresponsible driving, putting everyone on the road in danger. Realizing the road is a public good – it was made for everyone – can also help you stay a little calmer. 

9. Don’t Stare/Gawk

It’s commonplace for heavy traffic situations to be coupled with a crash or emergency. If this is the case, don’t let that change your focus. Keep your eyes on the drivers around you and road in front of you. Don’t turn your head to stare at a crash that isn’t involving you. 

10. Take a Break if Necessary

If you feel yourself getting anxious, angry, or impatient, take a break. Pull off at an exit and stretch your legs and take a few deep breaths. The extra minute or two you take will make a world of difference.

 “Should you or a loved one be injured in an accident, please contact our experienced team. We are available 24/7 and are ready to assist you,” said Randall Spivey, Fort Myers Car Accident Attorney at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

Fort Myers Car Accident Attorney,Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839,or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.