Why Is It Called Rush Hour When You Barely Move?

Have you ever wondered why we call it “rush hour” when cars barely move during this period? This term, which originated from the peak periods of pedestrian and vehicle traffic in cities, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, has its roots in the simultaneous rush of people to or from work or school.

The Origin of the Term “Rush Hour”

Why do they call it rush hour when nothing moves? While traffic often moves slowly or not at all during rush hour due to the high volume of vehicles on the road, the term “rush hour” reflects the collective intention and movement of people during these peak periods.

The term “rush hour” first came into use to describe the busy periods of pedestrian and vehicle traffic in cities. Despite the worsening traffic congestion over time, the term has persisted even as the actual movement of cars becomes highly restricted. This is because everyone is rushing somewhere at the same time, regardless of their actual speed.

Rush Hour and Its Impact on Traffic

“Rush hour” usually happens twice a day, when the majority of the population in a location is heading into work and heading home. This phenomenon adds to the already congested roads, slowing everything down and causing significant traffic.

The peak periods are crucial for employees as most businesses close during these times, leading to a surge of people hitting the road and rushing to get home. This combination of high demand and limited capacity often results in major traffic and stress for everyone involved.

If you work nights, it is not as crowded, and hence less time is spent sitting in traffic. Conversely, rush hour in the morning and evening is a clear example of why the term is used, as everyone is in a similar rush and the roads reflect this.

The Collective Rush

The reason behind the term is encapsulated in the collective rush to get to work, school, or other activities. The peak periods of the day are marked by a simultaneous move by a large number of people, making the roads congested and slow.

Amma (mother language colloquial term) might guess that the term “rush hour” is used because it is the hour where traffic movement is at its peak and people are rushing before traffic jams start. This perception is largely correct as the volume of traffic during rush hour can often reach its peak before the traffic jams truly set in.

Understanding the term “rush hour” helps in planning travel times and routes to avoid the worst of traffic. It is a useful indicator for transportation planners and policymakers to address traffic congestion and improve road infrastructure.

So, the next time you are stuck in a long traffic jam during rush hour, remember that the term accurately reflects the collective rush and movement of people, even if the cars themselves barely move.