Watchful ADAC advises on road safety this weekend, offering advice for drivers to ensure a safe journey. - Traffic congestion alert: Strategies for motorists to avoid delays on roads, as per ADAC's advisory.
Ascension Day Approaching: ADAC Warns of Traffic Congestion in Baden-Württemberg Over Long Weekend
The Automobile Club of Germany (ADAC) anticipates significant traffic jams on the roads in Baden-Württemberg leading up to Ascension Day on Thursday. Holger Bach, head of the traffic and environment department, predicts the heaviest traffic will occur on Wednesday between 1pm and 7pm, as both commuters and short holidaymakers are likely to be on the roads simultaneously.
In 2024, the day before Ascension Day was one of the most congested days of the year. Additionally, construction sites pose an increased risk of traffic congestion. "Should lanes be closed due to roadwork, tailbacks are almost inevitable in the event of an accident or high traffic volume," says Bach.
Noteworthy construction sites with potential for heavy traffic congestion include:
- A5 Darmstadt-Heidelberg in both directions between Hemsbach and Hirschberg
- A5 Basel towards Karlsruhe between Rastatt-Nord and Karlsruhe Süd
- A6 Mannheim-Heilbronn in both directions between Kreuz Walldorf and Wiesloch/Rauenberg
- A7 Würzburg-Ulm in both directions between Feuchtwangen-West and Rastplatz Mühlbruck
- A8 Stuttgart-Karlsruhe in both directions between Pforzheim-Süd and Pforzheim-Nord
- A8/A81 at the Leonberg triangle
- A81 Singen-Stuttgart in both directions between Oberndorf am Neckar and Empfingen
The ADAC recommends that travelers leaving on Wednesday evening or Thursday will experience smoother sailing. Sunday will see more traffic jams than a typical Sunday, but fewer than on Wednesday due to the absence of commuters. Leaving the motorway during traffic jams may not provide any advantage, as alternatives routes are often congested as well.
This year, the ADAC warns of potential increased border controls upon entering Germany. Short holidaymakers are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Last year, the ADAC recorded 239 traffic jams on Baden-Württemberg's roads on the Wednesday preceding Ascension Day, totaling 896 kilometers and a wait time of 272 hours.
For safer and more comfortable travels during Ascension Day weekend in Baden-Württemberg, the following strategies are suggested:
- Scheduling
- Avoid peak hours: Steer clear of road departures on Wednesday afternoon, Thursday morning, and Friday afternoon.
- Travel off-peak: Early morning or late evening journeys can help bypass heavy traffic.
- Return times: Wait until Sunday evening to return, avoiding the 3pm to 7pm period when congestion is usually highest.
- Route Planning
- Alternative Routes: Opt for secondary roads or scenic routes instead of main highways prone to heavy traffic.
- Real-Time Updates: Utilize ADAC’s traffic information services or navigation apps that provide live traffic updates and suggested detours around traffic jams.
- Public Transportation
- Consider trains or buses: Public transport is a viable alternative to avoid the stress of driving in heavy traffic.
- Stay Informed
- ADAC Traffic Reports: Regularly check ADAC’s website, app, or radio broadcasts for up-to-date traffic news, roadwork, and accident reports.
- Flexible Planning
- Adjust schedules: If possible, adapt travel plans based on the latest traffic forecasts to avoid peak congestion times.
By adhering to these strategies, travelers can enjoy a more enjoyable and less stressful trip during the busy Ascension Day weekend in Baden-Württemberg. Safe travels!
In light of the upcoming Ascension Day, the Community policy on transport should emphasize the importance of avoiding peak hours on Wednesday afternoon, Thursday morning, and Friday afternoon to minimize traffic congestion. Additionally, to reduce the impact of aid to the environment and support a sustainable lifestyle, travelers are encouraged to consider alternatives such as public transportation or planning their routes using real-time traffic updates and suggested detours.
