General
This Is How the Phantom Traffic Jam Everyone Hates Arises
On highways, drivers often encounter sudden slowdowns and standstills without any visible cause such as accidents or roadworks. This phenomenon, known as a phantom traffic jam, occurs when small disturbances—like a driver braking slightly—cause a ripple effect. Each following driver brakes a bit harder, eventually leading to a complete stop. The article explains that such jams can form even when traffic is flowing smoothly, highlighting how minor actions can escalate into significant congestion without any clear reason.
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