Phantom Traffic Jams as an Implicit Manifestation of Traffic Congestion

Abstract

The key causes of phantom traffic jams, which are formed without visible obstacles and are a consequence of the driver behaviour and traffic organization features, are considered. It is established that traditional methods of
combating congestion, such as widening roads, do not always lead to the desired result, since an increase in capacity is often accompanied by an increase in the number of cars on the roads.
The principle of spontaneous congestion formation is investigated from the point of view of the analogy of physical processes. Experimental studies of modern authors demonstrating the influence of small fluctuations on the stability of the traffic flow are analyzed.
At the synergistic level, solving the problem of phantom traffic jams requires an integrated approach that
includes both technological innovations and organizational changes in the traffic management.
Many authors note that the priority vector for the development of the transport system is the introduction of unmanned vehicles. This approach solves the main problem of the formation of phantom traffic jams – human influence. However, despite these advantages, unmanned technologies are not currently widely used due to the legal and legislative uncertainty and expensive capital investments.
In this regard, the most pragmatic solutions involve the use of the advanced vehicle speed control system known as adaptive cruise control. This technology allows the driver to maintain a set speed, automatically adjusting it depending on road conditions and the distance to the vehicle in front.