🚗 Changing Lanes in Traffic Jams: Does It Really Make You Go Faster?

Who hasn’t had the impression that the next lane is always moving faster on the highway? When you’re stuck in traffic, the temptation to switch lanes is strong… but is it really an effective strategy?

📊 1. The Traffic Theory

Traffic engineering studies show that in long-lasting traffic jams, all lanes move at roughly the same average speed.
The small differences we notice are usually due to:

• 🚛 a slow-moving truck,

• 🚦 a driver who takes longer to restart,

• 🚙 variations in the distance between cars.

👉 These local fluctuations create the illusion that one lane is faster, but the real gain is almost zero.

🧠 2. The Illusion of the Faster Lane

Our brain is not neutral:

• 👀 we notice more when the other lane moves,

• ⏳ we forget the time lost while changing lanes,

• 📏 we overestimate the few meters gained.

Result: the feeling of saving time is misleading.

⚠️ 3. The Hidden Costs of Lane Switching

Changing lanes frequently comes with downsides:

• 🚧 Increased risk of collisions during sudden braking,

• 😣 Higher stress and fatigue,

• ⛽ Greater fuel consumption due to extra acceleration and braking.

👉 A gain of a few seconds doesn’t make up for these disadvantages.

✅ 4. When Changing Lanes Actually Makes Sense

There are situations where it’s logical to switch lanes:

• 🛣️ when preparing for an exit,

• 🚨 if a lane is blocked due to an accident or breakdown,

• 🚍 to access a reserved lane (carpool, bus, taxi) if you’re allowed.

🏁 Conclusion

Regularly changing lanes in a traffic jam won’t get you to your destination faster.
The best strategy is to:

• 👉 choose a lane and stick to it,

• 🚘 drive calmly and safely,

• 😊 reduce frustration and stress.

💡 Practical tip: next time you’re stuck in traffic, try patience… you’ll arrive at the same pace, but with more peace of mind!

📩 Do you have questions about traffic law or a specific driving issue? Feel free to contact me — I’m here to help.