How to Deal with Public Transport Disruptions


Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Are public transport disruptions getting in the way of your plans? Don’t let them bring your day to a halt. This article is your guide to practical tips for navigating your city when public transport is unavailable.

An empty train station
Navigating the city during unexpected traffic disruptions can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it work. Image credit: Benjamin Sow/Unsplash

Dealing with traffic disruptions can be a frustrating experience for commuters, especially when they are caused by construction, parades, protests, or strikes. While such events may be beyond our control, there are still ways to navigate them and keep moving. In this article, we’ll offer you tips and strategies to help you move around your city when public transport is disrupted or unavailable. You’ll also find advice on planning your route, staying informed about disruptions, and exploring alternative transportation options.

Planning Your Route

Strategically planning your journey in advance can help you bypass congested areas and discover alternative paths to your desired destination. It’s worth noting that events like strikes or protests are often called for short periods, typically lasting 24 or 48 hours, so it may be possible to adjust your schedule accordingly. Below are some suggestions to help plan your travel route:

Check Traffic Updates and News Reports

It’s important to stay informed about any road closures or disruptions that might affect your route. Check local news websites or social media feeds for updates on traffic conditions. Many cities also have official Twitter accounts or websites that provide real-time updates on traffic and road closures. Keep in mind that strikes may be called off at short notice, sometimes only the day before or even hours before. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check for updates frequently to avoid any surprises on your commute.

Use Mapping Apps

Mapping apps like Google Maps can be helpful tools for finding the quickest and most efficient route. These apps take real-time traffic data into account, so they can suggest alternative routes if there are any disruptions on your usual route. Additionally, if there’s a local transport app available, it may have more accurate information on public transit schedules and routes, including any disruptions or delays. Be sure to check if your city has one and download it to your phone for easy access.

Leave Early

Finally, it’s always a good idea to leave earlier than usual when there are traffic disruptions. This will give you extra time to navigate any unexpected delays and ensure that you arrive at your destination on time.

Alternative Transportation Options

When public transportation is unavailable due to traffic disruptions or strikes, it’s important to consider alternative options to get around your city. Here are some options to consider:

Walking or Biking

A picture of a woman on a bike
Beat the traffic and enjoy the fresh air by swapping your car for a bike during times of public transport disruption. Image credit: micheile henderson/Unsplash

Walking or biking can be a healthy and eco-friendly option for short distances or if you want to avoid the hassle of driving or finding parking. Make sure to wear appropriate gear and follow safety guidelines if you choose to use these options.

Taxis

Traditional taxis are still a viable option if you need to get somewhere quickly and don’t have access to public transportation. Keep in mind that taxis are generally metered and charged at a base rate in addition to a per-kilometer fee. While these charges are typically fixed, they can vary from city to city. Also, some drivers may charge additional fees for night-time rides or bulky luggage.

Blacklane Chauffeured Rides

A picture of a chauffeur opening a car door for a guest.
Experience the comfort of a traditional chauffeur service with the convenience of booking a ride within minutes through Blacklane. Image credit: Blacklane

Blacklane can be just the ticket for getting to where you need to be with absolute comfort and style. Our online booking system and mobile app allow you to book ahead of time, in complete confidence that your chauffeur will be there on time and exactly where you need them. Regardless of the service you book (airport transfer, chauffeur hailing, or city to city rides), we offer you professional, discreet chauffeurs with excellent local knowledge, high-quality black vehicles, and a fixed price which includes all fees and taxes.

Tips for Staying Productive during Transport Disruptions

Transport disruptions can be frustrating, but they don’t have to derail your productivity. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

Work from Home

If possible, consider setting up a temporary office at home for the day. This allows you to avoid the hostile pandemonium of the rush hour commute and use your time productively.

Camp Out at a Coffee Shop

If working from home isn’t an option, consider heading to a nearby café to work. Bring your laptop and phone to get a head start while everyone else battles it out for the next available mode of transportation.

Adjust Your Working Hours

To avoid rush hour traffic, consider adjusting your working hours. Arrive at work after the morning chaos has died down and leave after the evening rush hour has ended.