This series is a paid partnership with ACL.

Traffic jams feel inevitable. Yet many daily bottlenecks are created by driver behaviour. Entry lanes during rush hour are a clear example. Cars hesitate, block lanes, and slow everyone down. Luxembourg has a simple solution. The zipper system. Drivers on the motorway ease left. Drivers on the entry lane merge alternately. One car, then the other. Flow improves when everyone cooperates.

Another frequent trigger appears after minor accidents. If a vehicle is still drivable, it should be moved to the emergency lane. Leaving it on the road blocks traffic for hundreds of people. It can also lead to fines. Clearing the lane helps everyone reach home sooner.

Smartphones cause quieter but constant delays. A driver checking a screen at a red light holds up the entire line. Seconds add up. Traffic thickens without anyone noticing why.

Then there is rubbernecking. An accident on the opposite side attracts attention. Cars slow down just to look. This reaction is dangerous and unnecessary. It creates congestion where none should exist.

Traffic flow depends on small choices. Let others merge. Move vehicles when possible. Stay alert at lights. Keep eyes on the road. Courtesy keeps traffic moving for everyone.