Recurring frustration commuters go through on traffic

It is no the exception, but now a reality and way of life that millions of Nigerians especially people in Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt, Kano and other major cities in the country have to live with in their daily commuting.

Sometimes when many drivers plan their day and model their movements yo avoid the frustrating traffic congestions in these cities that has becoming a recurring decimal, there seems to be little or no impact at all.

Not even the huge resources invested in traffic control in terms of men and equipment by some states in the country have impacted positively on the worrisome vehicular situation which comes with its glaring health implications,

As people continue to migrate to bigger cities, the traffic increases and it is important to prepare oneself for this unfortunate adventure. The list of things that you can do inside the car while being stuck in traffic grows impressively longer with only our creativity being the limit.

When confronted with this confusion, a number of precautions and common sense driving habits need to be adopted. Among other things, slow down a bit, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, stay focused by keeping your eyes on the road and check the mirrors, communicate your driving intentions, don’t overtake, stay on the line and above all, remain calm.

Drive in a manner that will allow the time and space to respond swiftly to any emergency situation. Avoid aggressive driving and weaving from lane to lane – you are driving on the road and not on some game on your phone.

Always slow down a bit. Maneuvering along, while trying to find the fastest-moving lane, really won’t save you much time. By slowing down, you can avoid potential collisions with jittery and angry drivers who just don’t have the patience to deal with traffic delays.

During heavy traffic, keep a safe distance [buffer zone] from other vehicles and give yourself ample response time by slowing your speed.

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 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.

Driving in heavy traffic requires an increased focus and alertness. The road will be crowded with cars, the flow of traffic irregular, and people will start getting impatient, leading to them trying to merge where they likely shouldn’t.

Keep both eyes on the road, both hands on the steering wheel and all your focus on driving. This is not the time for a serious in- car discussion or any activity that will take your attention away from driving: Leave the phone alone – If you must have a cellular conversation you need to have a hands free device.

Turn down the music, ask your passengers to quiet down until you are free of heavy traffic. Stay focused. Keep your mind on driving by avoiding distractions such as eating and drinking.

In heavily congested traffic you are sharing the road with many different types of road users and vehicles. Be considerate, understanding and kind! Always communicate your driving intentions. Indicators are the best tools to avoid agitation and road rage. Use it.

Letting other drivers know what you are about to do helps them prepare their own course of action, and reduces the risk of getting into trouble.

You can also use your lights to flash and signal other drivers, warning them of potential problems, while increasing the visibility of your own vehicle.

When you encounter heavy traffic you need to drive with a very calm and relaxed attitude. Do not get agitated with the congested traffic keep in mind that you and your vehicle contributes to the congestion experienced by all. It is best not to drive while tired or emotionally agitated.

Calm is the name of the game in heavy traffic, while patience or becoming a patient is the option. Breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, and breathe out. Most importantly, remember that everyone is going through the same stress.

Many horrific crashes in heavy traffic are head-on collisions caused by impatient drivers recklessly and unsafely overtaking. Before you overtake always consider if it is necessary.

Try to avoid dangerously overtaking multiple vehicles. Never assume that there will be a safe space for you to re-enter traffic once you have overtaken another vehicle.

MIKE OCHONMA