(See bottom of story for infographic showing congestion rates across Canada.)
Waiting for what seems like forever to merge onto Highway 1. Crawling along Oak Street. Stuck on the East-West Connector.
Vancouverites know a thing or two about sitting in traffic.
In fact, it turns out we know more about traffic congestion than any other city in Canada. According to TomTom’s Traffic Index report released March 31, the average percentage increase in travel time that can be attributed solely to congestion in Vancouver is 35% – a full eight percentage points higher than the national average of 27%.
At rush hour, congestion increases Vancouver drivers’ travel times by 66%, compared with 57% Canada-wide.
TomTom estimates that the average Vancouver driver loses 84 hours a year by being stuck in traffic. Across Canada, this works out to about 79 hours a year.
What is one way employers can help cut down their workers’ travel times and lost congestion-related driving hours?
“The high levels of congestion are due in part to the traditional workweek, giving people no choice but to all be on the road network at the exact same time,” TomTom said in a release.
“By adopting more flexible schedules, individuals save travel time and rush hour congestion can be reduced overall.”
Toronto comes in second place across Canada at 31% overall, followed by Ottawa with 28%.
Calgary drivers may be surprised to learn that they have the lowest congestion rate of any other major city in Canada, at 22%.
The study found that only one city in the United States – Los Angeles – has worse congestion than Vancouver. Angelenos’ travel time is increased by 39% due to being stuck in traffic.
Worldwide, Istanbul has the worst congestion levels, at 58%. Mexico City is in second place at 93%, followed by Rio de Janeiro (51%).
When is the worst time for congestion? TomTom found that you will likely spend the most time stuck in traffic on Thursday evenings.
These statistics may add fuel to the Yes side’s tank in the transit plebiscite currently underway in Metro Vancouver, as this side is taking the stand that a 0.5% percentage PST increase will decrease traffic in the region. Some No side supporters have pointed out, however, that a Yes win will simply lead to an increase in taxes and wouldn’t guarantee that all the improvements that are being touted will actually take place.
