If you’re living in or travelling through New Zealand, you’ll know that traffic congestion and accidents are common occurrences. Traffic management in NZ is complicated. Sitting in traffic for hours can be very frustrating, or catching up in an accident that causes massive delays. Here, we’ll provide some tips on how to handle traffic congestion and accidents. Hopefully, by following these tips, you’ll make your journey a little bit smoother!
Traffic management rules
– Always keep left unless passing
– Obey traffic signals and signs
– Give way to the right
– Use indicator when changing lanes
– Keep a safe distance from other vehicles
Get traffic updates before you start your journey.
Before setting off on a journey, it is crucial to get traffic updates so that you are aware of any congestion or accidents that may be happening on the route. This will assist you in planning your journey accordingly and avoid any delays.
Leave early to avoid rush hour traffic.
If possible, try to avoid travelling during peak hours as this is when traffic is usually at its heaviest. However, leaving earlier than usual will help you beat the traffic and get to your destination on time.
Use public transport where possible.
Using public transport can be an effective way to avoid traffic altogether. Plan your journey in advance and check timetables so you can make the most of using buses, trains or other public transport.
Carpool with friends or family
Carpooling is a great way to reduce road traffic and can be more fun than travelling alone. If you have a group of friends who will be travelling in the same direction as you, see if they would be interested in carpooling. This way, you can all split the cost of petrol and take turns driving.
Take alternative routes
If heavy traffic is on your usual route, try an alternative route instead. This may add some extra time to your journey, but it will be worth it if you can avoid sitting in traffic for hours.
Be patient
Traffic can be frustrating, but it is important to remain calm and patient when you are behind the wheel. Getting angry or aggressive will not help to get you to your destination any faster.
Allow extra time for your journey.
When planning your journey, always allow extra time in case you hit traffic congestion or delays. This way, you won’t be stressed if you end up stuck in traffic for a while.
Keep your cool
It is necessary to stay calm and not panic if an accident happens. This can be difficult, but it is important to remember that accidents always happen, and there is no need to overreact.
Move your car off the road if you can
If you are involved in a minor accident, moving your car off the road is usually best. This will help reduce traffic congestion and make it easier for emergency services to get to the scene of the accident.
Call 111 if you need assistance.
If you are involved in a serious and dangerous accident or if you witness an accident, it is important to call 111 immediately. This will ensure that emergency services are sent to the scene as soon as possible.
Traffic management in NZ is daunting but we hope that these tips have been helpful and that you feel more confident about handling traffic congestion and accidents. Always stay calm and patient behind the wheel, and never hesitate to call 111 if you need assistance.
