How to Drive in Traffic Congestion for Beginners?
4 Answers
For beginners encountering traffic congestion, the following driving methods are recommended: 1. During traffic jams, try to slightly offset your vehicle to the left from the car in front, allowing you to see several vehicles ahead. After the car in front starts moving, leave a gap of one car length before following (making it harder for other cars to cut in), while paying attention to the movements of the four or five cars ahead. If the leading cars only move one meter and then brake, do not proceed further to avoid rear-end collisions due to late braking. 2. Driving in the city, especially during rush hours, often involves encountering congestion. At such times, the distance between cars is very small, often less than 3 meters, with speeds between 20~30km/h, or even below 20km/h. Following too closely can lead to rear-end collisions, while following too far may irritate the drivers behind.
When I first started driving, I used to get nervous in traffic jams, but later I learned to stay calm. First, slow down and leave a safe distance from the car in front, at least two car lengths, so even if the car ahead brakes suddenly, you won’t rear-end it. Check the rearview mirror frequently to monitor the vehicles behind you, and avoid constantly trying to change lanes—new drivers can easily lose control. In traffic, avoid slamming the brakes or accelerating abruptly; instead, use gentle movements and light taps on the brakes to inch forward smoothly. This prevents the car from jerking and keeps you comfortable. If you get bored, you can listen to some light music or the radio to relieve stress. Also, check the car’s condition to ensure the lights and turn signals are working properly, so you can signal promptly in case of an emergency. It’s okay for beginners to drive slowly—safety comes first. You’ll get used to it over time. Remember, don’t rush—take it easy.
As a seasoned driver with ten years of experience, traffic jams are a common occurrence for me. My advice is to plan your route in advance, use a navigation app to check real-time traffic conditions, and avoid peak hours or congested routes. If you're stuck in traffic, maintain a steady speed and utilize cruise control if your car has it, as it automatically regulates speed to save fuel and reduce fatigue. Try to avoid frequent lane changes; instead, pick a lane and follow steadily for safety and convenience. If time allows, lower the air conditioning temperature to prevent irritation and open the windows for fresh air. You can set your phone aside, but never use it—safe driving is crucial. With more experience, you'll find that traffic jams are opportunities to practice patience and self-control. In short, don't panic, and use some clever tricks to make the journey easier.
For beginners driving in traffic jams, I would teach them to operate with patience as if teaching a child. The key is to avoid stalling, especially with manual transmission cars—press the clutch lightly and tap the gas to move slowly; automatic transmission makes it much easier. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial—watch the taillights of the car ahead and follow slowly, avoiding tailgating. Stay focused, minimize phone use, and listen to the radio for traffic updates. If stuck too long and feeling tired, take a break at a service area; beginners shouldn't push themselves. Simple adjustments like seat positioning can ease discomfort and relieve stress. Most importantly, keep a calm mindset—treat it as a practice opportunity, and don’t let anxiety cloud judgment.
