Summary
People in the U.S. are spending more time stuck in traffic than ever before, averaging 63 hours annually. This increase in traffic congestion follows changes in driving patterns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant delays now occurring during midday as well as traditional rush hours.
Key Facts
- The average U.S. car commuter spends 63 hours a year in traffic.
- This is the highest level of traffic congestion since 1982.
- Traffic patterns have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, with more midday congestion.
- Traditional rush hours are returning, but Thursday now sees more delays than Friday.
- Delivery trucks are contributing to increased traffic.
- Between 2019 and 2024, cities like San Francisco, San Diego, and Miami saw large increases in traffic delays.
- Some cities, like Washington, D.C., Boston, and Austin, experienced decreases in traffic delays.
- Solutions proposed include expanding roads, improving public transportation, and using new traffic technologies.
