The UK city where residents spend nearly 360 hours in traffic jams

A new study has found the worst towns and cities for traffic jams, with residents in one part of the country spending more than 300 hours per year stuck on congested roads. No matter where they are from, all drivers know the frustration of their journey being held up by a queue of vehicles going nowhere. However, according to a new study by Compare the Market, some parts of the UK see significantly more than others.

Julie Daniels from Compare the Market's car insurance team highlighted that the average Brit spends 240 hours stuck in traffic each year - 10 days. She explained: "Getting stuck in traffic, especially when you’re running late, can be incredibly frustrating. However, this is a common occurrence for many, as we spend almost 10 days a year stuck in traffic on average. Plus, 17% of drivers admit to experiencing road rage due to slow driving, so it’s important to take steps to help reduce the stress brought on by traffic."

According to Compare the Market, which assessed the number of residents who use a car to commute and the typical number of days spent stuck in traffic each year, Bradford is the worst UK city for congestion, with a traffic index score of 217.

One reason why the West Yorkshire city encounters so much traffic is due to the particularly high number of motorists in the area, with 80 % of residents claiming to commute via car.

The average resident of Bradford spends nearly 15 days, or nearly 360 hours, stuck in traffic jams each year - nearly five times the amount that those living in Lancaster encounter.

To help avoid traffic jams from causing frustration, Julie urged all motorists planning to make a long journey to give themselves plenty of time or use a real-time traffic app to help avoid particularly populated areas.

She advised: "It may seem obvious, but allow yourself extra time for potential delays. Knowing you’ve factored in this additional time can help alleviate any stress you may feel and help you stay patient. Using real-time traffic apps to plan the least congested route before setting off can help, too.

"And while standstill traffic can feel tedious, it’s important to stay alert. Keep the music volume down, maintain a safe distance, and resist the urge to reach for your phone. Using a mobile phone while driving - even when stationary - is illegal and could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points on your license.