What to Do in Case of Highway Traffic Jam?

[DamianLee]

When starting, be sure to proceed slowly. When the vehicles ahead begin to move, follow them gently and move forward gradually. If encountering a minor traffic jam, do not turn off the engine directly, as this can lead to increased fuel consumption and potential damage to the engine. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. If the distance is too close, there is a high risk of colliding with the preceding vehicle when it starts moving.

[AndersonLee]

If encountering a highway traffic jam, I recommend immediately turning on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind, while maintaining sufficient braking distance from the vehicle ahead. Pay special attention to the movements of large trucks, as they are prone to losing control during congestion. Quickly check real-time traffic conditions via a mobile app to determine if the jam is caused by an accident or construction. If stationary for an extended period, you can turn off the engine to save fuel, but avoid running the air conditioning continuously when the engine is off to prevent battery drain. Always keep mineral water and small biscuits in the car; last time I was stuck for four hours and relied entirely on snacks. Never use the emergency lane, as it not only incurs fines but also delays rescue vehicles. If you're really hungry, you can order delivery, but instruct the rider to deliver to the nearest highway exit for pickup.

[Luca]

I have experience with highway traffic jams. Before setting off, enable congestion alerts in your navigation settings to avoid many congested spots. Always keep a power bank in the car so your phone stays charged no matter how long the jam lasts. Sending location updates to family ensures safety. Bring a U-shaped pillow and a light blanket for comfortable rest in the car. Avoid drinking too much to prevent the hassle of finding a restroom on the highway. I move my legs every half hour to prevent varicose veins. In hot weather, ensure proper ventilation inside the car; using the external circulation mode is more fuel-efficient than internal circulation. Also, don’t forget to check the tire pressure monitoring, as debris on the road is common in traffic jam areas.

[VanLondyn]

I have summarized three strategies to deal with traffic jams: 1. Maintain a calm mood and tune the car radio to the traffic channel to stay updated on road conditions. 2. Prepare a folding stool; when stuck in a severe jam, get out to stretch but ensure there are no vehicles behind. 3. Follow the half-tank refueling principle—filling up before a traffic jam consumes more fuel. Always carry a phone charging cable, as frequent plugging and unplugging of the car charger port can cause damage. Keeping some ready-to-eat food in the trunk is more practical. Road rage is the least advisable—once I saw someone change lanes abruptly and get rear-ended, which only prolonged the congestion.

[LeLondyn]

Here are my habits during traffic jams: First, ensure the braking system is functioning properly, as repeated light braking can easily cause overheating. Switch the car navigation to traffic mode to check if there are any service areas ahead. Use wet wipes to clean the windshield to maintain clear visibility. Prepare an eco-friendly bag for trash instead of throwing it out the window. Bringing hot tea in a thermos is more thirst-quenching than buying drinks. If traveling with children, bring coloring books or toys to divert their attention. During prolonged idling, start the engine every twenty minutes to charge the battery. Pay attention to changes in the fuel consumption indicator; if the fuel level drops below a quarter, find an opportunity to refuel.

[StLucille]

Every time I encounter a traffic jam, I follow a three-step routine: First, information gathering, using two navigation apps simultaneously to cross-check traffic conditions. Then, safety checks, ensuring the triangular warning sign and fluorescent vest are within reach by the door. Lastly, replenishing supplies, finding a service area to use the restroom and buy necessities while on the move. Don’t set the air conditioning too low to avoid catching a cold; three degrees below the outdoor temperature is ideal. Remember to close the windows tightly to prevent exhaust fumes from entering. When stopping and waiting, don’t just rely on the foot brake—use the handbrake as well to prevent rolling. At night, turn on the reading light to reduce the chance of misjudgment by vehicles behind.