5 Unconventional Ways to Avoid Traffic Jams in Singapore

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Getting stuck in traffic jams is one of the most frustrating things about driving.

Traffic jams and road congestion are part and parcel of every drivers' life. According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Singaporean drivers experience 34 minutes of extra travelling time daily because of congestion on the roads. If you wish to cut this number drastically, the following guide will show you five unconventional ways to so. Check it out below.

1. Stop Relying on GPS Systems

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Most GPS systems are programmed to get you from point A to point B within the shortest time possible. However, there are some navigation systems that don’t factor in traffic conditions and traffic jams into your journey. Instead of selecting the quickest possible route, they may lead you to a congested highway or road, because it technically is the shortest route (distance-wise) to your destination. Rather than rely on your GPS, you should study or find out alternative travel routes for your journey. That way, you can still reach your destination, while avoiding congested roads or highways.

2. Take Advantage of Flexi-Hour Work Arrangements to Avoid Peak Hour Traffic

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For those of you unaware, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) have started an Enhanced Work-Life Grant that allows companies to provide flexible work arrangements for its employees. Under this scheme, employees are free to choose their starting and ending work times daily, provided they complete a stipulated number of work hours within the day. If your company offers this flexi-work arrangement, you can take advantage of it to avoid peak and rush hour traffic. Visit the following link or speak to your HR department to learn more about the flexi-work arrangements.

3. Make Use of Public Transport

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Can’t get caught in a traffic jam if you don’t drive. Unless your job requires you to drive, you can actually avoid road congestion and traffic jams completely by taking the bus or MRT. Yes, our public transport system leaves a lot to be desired, but they are actually quite reliable. Besides reducing traffic congestion, they can also help you save on petrol, maintenance, parking, and other vehicular expenses.

4. Listen to Traffic Updates on the Radio

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When was the last time you tuned into the radio to receive traffic updates? For those unaware, most local radio stations have dedicated traffic updates every hour. Instead of plugging in your iPod or connecting to Spotify, you should listen to our local radio stations to receive the latest traffic reports before setting off. If traffic is congested on your normal route, you should find an alternative route to your destination.

5. Anticipate Traffic Conditions by Using the Motorist App

Looking for traffic app to avoid traffic congestion? No one likes getting caught in traffic jams, however, we sometimes find ourselves in one due to a lack of updates. Fret not, with the new Motorist app, you can now remain up-to-date with the latest traffic updates.

Created by drivers for drivers, the Motorist app features an in-built traffic feed that displays the latest accidents, vehicle breakdowns, traffic jams, and much more. With these information at your fingertips, you’ll be in a better position to plan your journey and avoid traffic congestion.

Supported by our community of drivers, the Motorist app operates on a crowdsource model. This essentially means drivers are helping one another to identify and avoid these traffic incidents.

The Motorist App is currently free for download on the Google Play and Apple App store.

Read more: 7 Factors to Consider Before Buying a Car in Singapore