Traffic jams are a part of life. I really do appreciate Little Rock’s size because some larger cities have horrific traffic jams every day (I’m thinking L.A.). Normally, the worst traffic jams occur during rush hour and when there is an accident.
No one likes being caught in traffic for any reason, but some people really overreact. If you’re sitting still for an indeterminate amount of time, you really can choose how to respond.
Tips on chilling in a traffic jam
It’s really better for your mind, body and soul to relax when you’re stuck in traffic. Here are a few tips on chilling.
- Put in that foreign language CD you’ve been meaning to listen to and learn.
- Let whoever needs to know that you are running late so that they won’t worry, but don’t use your cellphone until you come to a complete stop.
- Play games on your cellphone.
- Don’t recline your seat or fall asleep. Stay alert so you can avoid a rude awakening of cars honking at you.
- If it looks like you’re going to be there a long time, and traffic hasn’t budged in several minutes, turn off your engine, if it’s not too hot or too cold. That will save gas and lower emissions.
- Listen to the local Department of Transportation (DOT) station so you can find out what’s causing the traffic jam, any alternate routes suggested, and if there is an estimated time for the traffic to lift. If you don’t have a DOT station, tune into a local station instead and see if there are traffic updates.
- Use this nuisance time to do a crossword puzzle or read a book, magazine or newspaper.
- Resist the urge (I’m thinking NYC) to honk your horn. You will only succeed in teeing off other drivers.
- Eat and/or drink (non-alcoholic), if you have food and beverages in your car. That’s always a good way to pass the time.
- Never get out of your vehicle. You never know when traffic will start moving again and you don’t want to be an unwitting target of a personal injury.
Traffic jams are ubiquitous so you might as well keep your blood pressure lowered and your hand gestures to a minimum. Learn to chill in traffic and you’ll probably live longer.
Group Matrix Blog – January 29, 2018 – by Sharon Bowles
