The Importance of Staying Alert as Traffic Patterns Are Changing

 While we are all cautiously optimistic about the world returning to normal, we need to remain vigilant as traffic starts to increase again.

Now that much of the country has opened up certain businesses and other establishments, there is an increase in rush hour traffic.

It is more important than ever to stay alert of traffic patterns and how they are expected to change in the coming weeks.

Read below to learn more about how and why traffic patterns are an important concern.

Driving After the Pandemic

There was a noticeable change to traffic patterns when cities and states all over the US were forced to shut down schools, office buildings, restaurants, and other shared spaces.

Most non-essential personnel and their families were staying home.

Because of this change, there was a dramatic reduction in cars on the road and overall traffic even during "peak" commuting hours and on weekends.

But as we start to see establishments open back up, there are not only more cars on the road, but also a few changes to the way people are driving.

A recent study showed that drivers are not obeying all traffic laws since restrictions have been lifted.

There has been an increase in speeding, failing to stop at stop signs, and dangerous cornering events.

You may also see a dramatic change in accident news as traffic continues to increase.

Rush Hour Traffic

If you are a daily commuter, you are painfully aware of how bad rush hour traffic can be.

During the pandemic, many people started to work remotely or were unable to report to their normal jobs.

Suddenly, there was no such thing as rush hour traffic!

As more people return to work, there will inherently be more cars on the road.

Moreover, due to social distancing concerns, commuters may choose to drive their car instead of carpooling or using public transportation.

Major cities like New York, San Francisco, Boston, and Atlanta are already speculating about the change to rush hour traffic in the coming weeks. 

There is not enough definitive research on each city's new rush-hour conditions, but initial signs are somewhat concerning.

Staying Safe

It is always important to be alert and appropriately cautious as a driver.

Avoiding distractions, scanning your surroundings, and leaving room between cars are all ways to avoid an accident.

Additionally, more people are walking, biking, or jogging on the sidewalks and roads since the pandemic started.

Because of social distancing protocol, these individuals may also be inclined to use the roads instead of the sidewalks which leads to potentially dangerous situations. 

Whether you are in a car or on your own two feet, you need to be aware of the traffic patterns on your usual routes.

Use online mapping resources along with common sense practices to road safety to be prepared.

Let's Come Together

It has been a very challenging few months for our country.

We have seen some devastating death rates that shook us to our core.

But we have also seen heroism, community, and kindness. 

Driving safely, even during rush hour traffic, should be something that we can all agree on to keep people safe.

So, be aware, be patient, and be alert when it comes to traffic.

If you're interested in reading more helpful tips, check out some of our other blogs!