We get it. We’ve been there. Being stuck in traffic makes every minute feel like a minute wasted, and sometimes the answer seems obvious - changing lanes.
However, better a minute wasted than a minute in danger. Each year, more than 1.35 million people around the world lose their lives to traffic accidents. As most people spend a significant time on the road, the road can become a dangerous place - particularly if drivers are in a rush and are constantly changing lanes.
In fact, constant lane-changing has been proven to be neither safe nor particularly useful. Over two decades of research have shown that other lanes are often not truly as free as they may appear.
From the point-of-view of a slower-moving lane, a passing lane may appear to move faster but that is not the case as traffic continues to fluctuate. The other lane may look emptier for a few seconds, but by the time you change lanes traffic could fluctuate again and you are in no better position.
Statistically speaking, the average speed remains the same no matter which lane of these two you choose. When the risks of needless lane changing drastically outweigh the benefits, it is safe to conclude that avoiding the temptation of lane-changing is often the best course of action.
Ultimately, the safest way to drive is with patience and peace of mind. Most accidents happen due to split-second decisions, the impact of which could last a lifetime.
Before you make a move on the road, observe your surroundings, think carefully, and decide the best way forward with caution. Remember, life is a journey. Let’s make it a safe one.
For more information, check out Bridgestone MEA’s latest catchy road safety campaign here: https://youtu.be/63g84E4v8bE
