Commuting to work is a great way to live in a less expensive area and still work where you want. Some people commute by bicycle to save gas. Others carpool to get to work together in the mornings.
No matter what kind of commuter you are, there are some basic tips that can help you get to your workplace safely. Here are three that can help you avoid a crash and make sure you get to work on time.
- Give yourself plenty of time
The first thing to do is to give yourself plenty of time to get to work. If you need to drive 20 minutes to get there, consider giving yourself at least 30 to account for additional traffic, if not more depending on the roads you take.
Depending on when you leave for work, you may have to adjust your scheduled commute based on rush-hour traffic, congested roadways and busy interstates.
- Avoid driving at peak times
The usual rush hour times, between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., are the busiest times of the day. However, if you can leave before or after these times, you may see little to no traffic at all. Try to schedule your shift so that you can avoid these high-traffic times.
- Plan a better route
Many commuters have learned the hard lesson that a backed up highway is difficult to get on or off during rush hour. If you’re heading in during a busy time, consider rerouting through the backroads or through an alternative route that doesn’t include the highway. If you have to use the highway, take it for the shortest possible distance. Planning in advance, in general, will keep you better prepared for the trip.
These are three tips to help commuters stay safer on the roads. Remember to plan for rush hour, choose a route and be ready to start out on your drive a little early if you think there will be delays. Taking those steps will reduce your stress and help make the drive safer for yourself and others on the road.
