You cannot expect to pay cheap car insurance rates unless you maintain a clean driving record, and that's hard to do when you're fighting heavy traffic. However, if you relax, keep your cool, and follow some sensible guidelines, you can stay safe and accident-free even when traffic is at its worst. Below are some valuable driving tips for handling traffic congestion.

How to Drive in Heavy Traffic

1. Always Use Your Signal

A turn indicator is an important tool whenever you're behind the wheel, but it's particularly crucial when traffic is heavy, and motorists have less time to react. Give drivers around you as much warning as possible by signaling your moves. This will help you maintain an accident-free driving record and cheap car insurance premiums.

2. Drive Defensively

Defensive driving means you're prepared for other drivers to act foolishly without reacting rashly. Don't weave in and out of traffic trying to find the fastest lane. Keep your eyes on the road and be prepared to brake suddenly. Follow all traffic rules and keep your temper, even if others frustrate you. Remember, the safety of you and your passengers is more important than making it to your destination on time.

3. Avoid Distractions

Driving while distracted is dangerous even in the best of conditions, but it's exceptionally hazardous in congested traffic. Never use the phone—for calls, texting, or even maps—when the roads are busy. You may have to react instantaneously to sudden obstacles. Similarly, don't eat on the road, and keep the stereo volume down, so you can hear squealing tires or honking horns.

For cheap car insurance in the Greater Cincinnati area, contact 1st Choice Insurance in Fairfield, OH. They specialize in helping high-risk and inexperienced drivers find affordable coverage, and they charge 38% less than many of their competitors do for SR-22 insurance. Call (513) 860-0666 to discuss your coverage options with a friendly, experienced agent, and visit their website to request a cheap car insurance quote.