Less Traffic Could Mean Better Economy, Cheap Car Insurance

A number of factors determine whether a driver will have access to cheap car insurance, such as their location and safety record.

Areas with high traffic levels could be prone to higher insurance costs because there tends to be a higher number of accidents and even thefts in such places. Drivers may also be more prone to stress in traffic, giving rise to road rage and other problems.

However, a recent report offers a whole new reason for cities to take greater steps to reduce their traffic rates. According to the Reason Foundation, many metropolitan areas could see billions of dollars in improvements with such efforts.

For example, the group estimates that San Francisco could see up to $10 billion per year in new economic activity with less traffic, while Detroit could see $7 billion per year in such activity.

"Shorter travel times increase worker productivity, spawn more jobs and help create more shopping, entertainment and dining choices," said Adrian Moore of the Reason Foundation.

Overall, traffic is more than just a problem that can keep drivers from getting cheap car insurance. It also apparently hampers economic activity at a time when many cities are trying to make ends meet.