With six New England states full of picturesque scenery, winding roads, and summer vacation spots, it’s no wonder traffic can get a bit hectic. Unfortunately, the increase in cars on the road has led to increased traffic accidents.
Today, dangerous driving habits, like distracted driving and speeding, are causing higher rates of accidents and fatalities.
If you’re planning on taking a trip through the New England states or are just navigating your daily commute, it’s important to understand how to protect yourself while on the roads. This article looks into the realities of traffic in the six New England states – from top dangers and trends to tips for staying safe – so you know what to expect when hitting the roads.
Unique Traffic Conditions in New Hampshire
As we all know, New Hampshire is notorious for its winter weather, and as a result, traffic can be a nightmare. Icy roads and snowstorms can lead to accidents, delays, and even road closures. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect and make preparations for winter driving.
Here are some tips for dealing with traffic right here in New Hampshire:
- Plan your route ahead of time and allow extra time for travel.
- Check the latest road conditions before setting out.
- Drive slowly and carefully, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather or road conditions.
- Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
- Use your headlights, even during the day, to improve your visibility.
- Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
- Be extra cautious around plow trucks and snow removal equipment.
What to Know About Traffic in Connecticut
In Connecticut, as with the rest of the New England states, traffic can be a real challenge. The roads are often crowded, and the weather can be unpredictable. This can make it difficult to get around and even more difficult to stay safe.
Considering Connecticut highways are some of the most congested and busiest in the nation, you might want to have a car accident attorney in Connecticut on your side when the road takes a wrong turn. For instance, when you’re driving that hair-raising stretch on Interstate 95 between exits 44 and 46, you’ll be glad you have the protection of an attorney because this and other roads in Connecticut are rife with potential hazards.
Traffic in Maine
In Maine, traffic can be a major problem during winter months. Icy roads and heavy snowfall can make driving conditions very dangerous. If you must travel during these months, be sure to take extra precautions and allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination safely.
Winter weather isn’t the only time when traffic can be an issue in Maine. Construction season is also a busy time on the roads. Be sure to plan your travels accordingly and check for any construction or road closures before you head out.
Car Traffic in Vermont
Vermont is one of the most rural states in the country, and as such, car traffic is generally light. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any hazards on the road. In fact, because Vermont is so rural, it can be easy to become complacent behind the wheel and not pay attention to your surroundings.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when driving in Vermont:
- Be aware of deer crossings. Because Vermont is mostly forested, there are a lot of deer that live in the state.
- Watch out for moose. While they aren’t as common as deer, moose are still present in Vermont and can pose a serious threat to motorists if hit.
- Beware of black ice. Black ice is especially common on back roads and bridges where snow and ice melt during the day and then refreeze overnight.
Driving Conditions and Traffic in Rhode Island
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you should be aware of the traffic conditions and driving laws in Rhode Island. With its dense population and limited highway space, Rhode Island has some of the worst traffic congestion in the country. The average commute time is over half an hour, and it’s not uncommon for drivers to spend an hour or more stuck in traffic.
There are a few things you can do to make your commute easier and safer. First, familiarize yourself with the state’s traffic laws. Rhode Island has strict enforcement of speed limits and seatbelt laws. If you’re caught speeding or driving without a seatbelt, you’ll be facing hefty fines. Second, plan your route ahead of time to avoid any construction or accidents that might cause delays. And finally, give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going – there’s no need to rush and risk getting into an accident.
What is Traffic Like in Massachusetts?
When it comes to traffic, Massachusetts is no different than any other state in the New England region. There are a few things that drivers should be aware of, though, before getting behind the wheel.
For starters, MassDOT (the state’s transportation agency) reports that there are an average of 439,000 vehicles on the road each day. That number swells to about 500,000+ during the peak summer travel months.
With all those cars on the road, it’s no surprise that traffic can be a bit congested at times. The good news is that there are a number of ways to avoid or minimize gridlock.
One is to use the state’s 511 Traveler Information System, which provides real-time updates on traffic conditions and incidents. The system also offers alternate route suggestions to help drivers avoid delays. Another option is to take advantage of the state’s many public transportation options.
Conclusion
While there are a lot of different factors that come into play when it comes to traffic in the six New England states, we hope this article has given you a better understanding of what you should expect. If you plan on taking a trip through any one or multiple of these six states, make sure to take extra precautions and be aware of your surroundings at all times!
