One of the few benefits of the COVID shutdowns were the empty highways and short commutes that briefly became the norm in 2020. But, after a sharp drop during the COVID-19 pandemic, traffic congestion is higher than ever in many areas around the country. For millions of Americans, that means longer commutes, more frustration behind the wheel, and increased accident risk on the road.
According to data from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s annual Urban Mobility Report, the average American now spends about 63 hours per year stuck in traffic. That lost time is more than an inconvenience. Congestion and long commutes are increasingly linked to higher rates of car accidents, as drivers deal with fatigue, stress, distractions, and unpredictable traffic patterns.
If you or a loved one was injured due to the negligence of another driver in heavy traffic, a car accident attorney can help. They will review your case, establish the value of your claim, and discuss your legal rights. Should you choose to work together, they will fight for the highest possible settlement on your behalf.
Irregular Traffic Patterns Leading to Increased Accident Risk
Traffic delays are nothing new, but researchers say today’s congestion is different than it was pre-pandemic. Historically, traffic patterns were fairly predictable. For decades, until 2020, morning and evening rush hours had the heaviest traffic, while off-peak hours offered some relief.
Now, congestion is no longer limited to traditional commuting windows. While rush hour is still problematic, traffic delays are spreading throughout the day and across more days of the week. Drivers are encountering unexpected backups during midday, evenings, and even weekends, making traffic and commute times unpredictable at best.
This unpredictability can be dangerous. When drivers head out expecting light traffic, they leave a certain amount of time to get to their destination. When they hit heavy congestion instead, they may become stressed as the drive takes longer and makes them late. This stress can lead to sudden braking, aggressive lane changes, and rear-end collisions. Inconsistent traffic flows also make it harder for drivers to stay mentally prepared, which increases the risk of mistakes.
Day-to-day and weekend traffic is increasing:
Researchers have also identified growing variability in traffic patterns from one day to the next. Mondays tend to be noticeably lighter, while Thursdays now rival Fridays as the heaviest traffic days of the week. Interestingly, congestion on weekend commutes is also on the rise. So, even on the weekend, drivers are not necessarily getting a break from heavy traffic like they used to.
Unfortunately, extended time behind the wheel increases physical and mental fatigue, slows reaction times, and reduces focus. Fatigued drivers are more likely to miss hazards, underestimate stopping distances, or become impatient in stop-and-go traffic, all of which raise the risk of a serious collision.
Trucks and congestion add another layer of accident risk:
Commercial truck traffic is another contributing factor to the increase in congestion. While some truck drivers shifted to off-peak hours during the height of the pandemic, recent data shows that truck-related delays during rush hour are climbing again. Large trucks require more time to stop, accelerate, and maneuver – especially in congested conditions.
When passenger vehicles and heavy trucks are competing for limited road space during peak congestion, the risk of severe accidents increases. Collisions involving commercial trucks are often more serious, resulting in greater property damage and a higher likelihood of catastrophic injuries.
Why Congestion Increases Risk of Accident
Congestion and long commutes create a perfect storm of risk factors:
- Drivers get fatigued from spending more time on the road
- Congestion increases stress and frustration that can lead to aggressive driving behaviors
- Drivers are more likely to succumb to distractions such as phones, navigation apps, or messages while creeping through traffic
- Heavy traffic creates unpredictable traffic patterns that result in sudden stops and collisions
When combined, these factors increase the risk of accidents for all drivers.
Seek the Help of a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! Since 1979, our personal injury law firm, Tario & Associates, P.S., has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured throughout Washington State, with local offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon to serve residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
