WhyNot?

Traffic Solution?

Category: Environment
Responses: 6 (5 in support, 1 neutral, 0 in opposition)
Number of views: 652
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There’s a science and mathematical explanation behind it, but all it takes is to find that formula and solution, right? Based on experience, careful observation, and as a daily commuter in the Los Angeles traffic, I think I may've just figured out a theory. The only way to explain it for now is by doing the 'marbles in the bottle' analysis.

Tipping the bottle too fast will obviously create congestion, right? But tipping it gently, gives it a flow! It might be slow, but it’s still a flow, & that's exactly how simple freeway traffic works! If there’s a speed limit law requiring everyone to slow down during rush hour on certain freeways and roads, traffic would mostly be flowing rather than stopping and going.

As the freeways get packed during peak hours of the day, most drivers are NOT aware of slowing down because the speed limit says so. So intentionally, drivers tend to speed up to the limit because they can. But if the roads ahead are too cramped up, then there’s absolutely no space to run fast all. This is when the ‘bumper-to-bumper’ traffic begins.

Ever wonder why was there traffic but not a single accident around?

Law of physics disagrees to a speeding driver during busy time. They will always end up tail gaiting the car ahead of them, which leads to hitting the brakes or even accidents. But did you know that by tapping the brake pedal just ONCE could eventually lead traffic to a complete halt at some point causing a chain reaction? I personally call this one the ‘wave of brake lights’ effect. Technically, it’s also called ‘stop-n-go’ traffic.

Speed limits should be posted electronically because of its frequent change depending on how many cars are on the road. Cars should be counted by computers as they enter the freeway, and the higher the count, the slower the speed limit should be.

If this theory makes sense, it could help prevent any of the above from happening and traffic will always be in constant motion. Also, let’s not forget about lesser impact on accidents. Drivers will be more careful and patient from driving that it would actually save time and lives in the long run.

fcuico, Jan 22 2007

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Comments from other members:

Add your comment

It makes sense. The signs should also suggest the less crowded alternative routes as well. Slowing down the traffic and dispersing it would certainly help. I personally, do not like to sit fast in jam packed traffic and would rather prefer an open or less cramped < by way> even if it is much longer to drive.

Naresh Ahuja, Jan 22 2007

The condition is referred to as a "traffic slinky" after the toy that behaves in a similar manner.

Everybody's comfort level is different so everybody reacts different to high traffic situations. One lane moves faster than all the others by pure luck a lot of the time. Even in a perfect world with everyone keeping a the same distance between them and the car in front of them the first car that comes down the on-ramp or changing lanes forces everyone behind him to slow slightly to keep that perfect spacing. Multiply that by the number of people coming onto the road (at any speed limit you pick) and if that number is high enough eventually the slinky is formed.

Hyenuf, Jan 22 2007

I often make a vein attempt to alter the traffic flow myself, by driving a slow constant speed. Unfortunately bottlenecks I know will continue to happen behind and people try and overtake as I am leaving a gap in front of me :(

Love your idea though!

Creo, Jan 23 2007

I think it is an interesting idea. My concern would be compliance. Most people exceed the speed limit as it is. I suspect that people will continue to drive faster than the electronically updated limite, unless there is some serious enforcement.d

ifischer, Jan 23 2007

Like the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady wins the race.

I read an article that mentioned the mathematics of this idea in Discover magazine a few years back.

barkleylee, Feb 27 2007