Guide to Houston, Texas Traffic and Driving Tips

Traffic in Houston, Texas is a challenge residents face daily. Drivers in Houston have a reputation for being aggressive, fast, and accident-prone. In fact, while traffic fatalities decreased in Texas in 2024, they rose in Houston, reaching the highest levels yet. 

Therefore, if you’re planning to drive in Houston, it’s important to know its traffic patterns. An unexpected accident can be a costly event, especially if you don’t have the proper insurance policy.  

In this blog, we’ll discuss Houston traffic patterns and precautions drivers can take to stay safe. If you’d like to explore insurance options with multiple carriers in Texas, Agencia de Seguros de Accesso, LLC (A Abana) is here to help. 

Understanding Houston traffic patterns 

Here’s what you can expect while driving through Space City: 

Houston rush hour 

Like most cities with high car ownership, Houston’s rush hour traffic will be heavy. Rush hour traffic can surge from about 7 a.m. to about 10 a.m. In the afternoon and evening, it may start as early as 3 p.m. and end after 7 p.m.  

Many roads in Houston are often under construction, so if you have to get to your destination by a certain time, add a bit of extra time to your commute. 

Major Houston highways 

• I-10: With 26 lanes at one of its sections in Houston, this highway is one of the widest in the world. Despite its girth, you’ll still see heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Outside of these hours, drivers tend to go fast on “Katy Freeway,” another name for I-10. It has some unexpected exit-only lanes and highway entries, so familiarize yourself with your route with a map or your preferred app before driving.  
• I-45: Cutting from North to South through the heart of Houston, drivers on I-45 tend to drive aggressively. Expect sudden mergers and tight lanes. Heavy rains may lead to floods in some sections.  
• US 59: Also known as I-69, this highway runs diagonally through Houston. Drivers may go over the speed limit on 59, so inexperienced drivers may find it chaotic. Like the highways above, expect sudden exits and lane merges.  
• Loop 610: A beltway that loops around Houston, 610 is heavily congested during rush hour. 610 beltway has sudden exits and short merging lanes, and is known for being regularly under construction.  
• Beltway 8: Also known as the Sam Houston Tollway (SHT), this beltway loops around Houston. It may be less congested than 610, but still busy. Drivers on Beltway 8 can expect many tolls, as well as floods after heavy rains. 

Yearly events and their impact on traffic 

• The Houston Marathon in January has road closures and causes delays on major highways. 
• The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in March causes traffic jams around NRG Park and downtown Houston.  
• Hurricane season, going from June to November, may cause floods on highways and roads. Check the weather forecast if you plan to travel during hurricane season. 
• NFL games during football season (fall and winter) create extremely congested traffic around NRG Stadium. If you plan to watch a game or commute near the area, a taxi or a drive-share ride is a viable option. 
• Houston is a lively and diverse city with festivals, concerts, and events year-round. Check with your trusted traffic authority, so you can plan a trip and reduce the stress of unwanted congestion or road closures.  

Parking, tolls, and ongoing construction 

• “Park & ride bus”: Parking can be a challenge in Houston, especially around downtown. Some drivers opt to use the “Park & Ride Bus” program by Houston’s METRO. This program lets commuters park in designated lots in various suburbs for free and then take a bus or a rail line into downtown.  
• Toll payment: Houston drivers will also encounter many tolls during their daily commutes. These tolls can be paid with electronic tags, which are small tags you can attach to your windshield. These help drivers pay as they go with an online account.  
• Ongoing construction: Houstonians often joke that highway construction never ends. This is especially true for the major highways mentioned above. Whether you’re crossing Houston or commuting, planning your route will help. 

Watch for aggressive driving and speeding 

If there is one thing that Houston drivers can agree on, it’s that drivers tend to be more aggressive here compared to other cities. Houston residents know the left lane is particularly fast, people may tailgate you, and many drivers often run red lights.  

To drive in Houston, it’s best to stay calm and alert. Maintain safe distances from drivers and avoid confronting anyone passing you, since road rage situations can quickly become dangerous.  

We recommend you follow local traffic laws. A ticket or infraction in your driving history can lead to higher insurance premiums. If you have a less-than-perfect driving record and need car insurance in Houston, A Abana could be the right choice for you. 

Be prepared for changing weather conditions 

Flash floods and sudden storms are common in Houston. Especially during hurricane season, which runs from June to November, conditions can change unexpectedly fast. Carry an emergency kit if you plan on driving, and look up any incoming weather events. 

Understanding Houston driving laws 

Important driving laws that you should follow include: 

• In Texas, texting and driving is prohibited and can lead to fines. Drivers may use voice control instead. 
• Like many states, seatbelts are required for the driver and all passengers. 
• Follow the speed limits. Police often patrol different areas to find drivers going over the limit. 
• Don’t drive while under the influence. Texas is strict when it comes to drinking and driving. If a law officer determines you are intoxicated, you may face high fines, jail time, and license suspension, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. 
• Drivers are required to have the minimum car liability insurance. Some traffic violations may lead to different insurance requirements, such as an SR-22. 

The importance of having proper auto insurance in Houston, Texas 

Houston has a high rate of uninsured drivers. Besides the required liability coverage, many Houston drivers opt for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), which helps offset the costs of an accident caused by someone who has no car insurance or not enough insurance. 

Drivers can also opt for full coverage, which can help in case of collisions or unwanted events such as theft, vandalism, or extreme weather. 

If you are planning to drive in Houston, explore various car insurance options with A Abana. With years of experience, we’ve helped Texas drivers find affordable insurance solutions. Call us at 214-764-8868, visit one of our stores, or get a free quote online.  

Disclaimer: ​ 

This material is for general informational purposes only. The products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or from all companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions, and conditions of the applicable policy. In all cases, the actual language of the policy contract prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the insurer's underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions, and exclusions may apply.