Traffic jamPortugal
Traffic rules
Portugal
1. Traffic jam
A traffic jam is a situation where traffic becomes heavily congested and vehicles move very slowly or stop for extended periods. Traffic jams are commonly caused by high traffic volumes, accidents, roadworks, lane closures or poor weather. Drivers should remain patient, keep a safe distance, avoid unnecessary lane changes and watch for motorcycles, emergency vehicles and sudden braking. Where lanes merge during congestion, local rules may require drivers to use a zipper-merging system.
What is a traffic jam?
A traffic jam occurs when traffic becomes congested and vehicles move slowly or remain stationary because the road cannot accommodate the normal flow of traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
What causes traffic jams?
Common causes include heavy traffic, accidents, roadworks, lane closures, bottlenecks and poor weather.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
How should you drive in a traffic jam?
Keep a safe distance, avoid sudden braking and unnecessary lane changes, and remain alert for changing traffic conditions and emergency vehicles.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
