The cue card "Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic jam" is given in this article as a practice test to improve your speaking. The three sections of the IELTS speaking test are the introduction, the cue card round, and the follow-up discussion round. You will have 11 to 14 minutes to present your ideas and showcase your communication abilities to the examiner.

 

Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic jam.

You should say:

• when and where it happened
• how long you were in the traffic jam
• how you passed the time while waiting
• explain how you felt when you were in that traffic jam.
• Why people have to face traffic jams these days?
• Do you think developing public transportation will solve the traffic problem?
• Do you think highways will reduce the traffic?

when and where it happened
One of the most frustrating traffic experiences I have ever had was when I was on my way to the airport to pick up my brother. He had been in Canada for four years, and his long-awaited return was an emotional moment for our family. However, my excitement quickly turned into frustration when I got caught in an unexpected and severe traffic jam just a few kilometers away from the airport.

 

how long you were in the traffic jam
The congestion lasted for nearly one and a half hours, which felt like an eternity. The cause of the gridlock was a multi-vehicle accident that had blocked several lanes, significantly slowing down the movement of traffic. I could see impatient drivers honking their horns, and people anxiously checking their phones, much like myself.

 

how you passed the time while waiting
To pass the time, I tried to remain composed and checked the live flight status, hoping my brother’s flight might be delayed. Unfortunately, the flight had landed exactly on time, making my situation even more frustrating. I also scrolled through social media, listened to some calming music, and even attempted to respond to a few pending emails to make the wait more productive.

 

explain how you felt when you were in that traffic jam.
Despite these distractions, I couldn’t shake off the anxiety and helplessness of being stuck in one place when I needed to be somewhere else. I kept glancing at the clock, feeling more impatient with every passing minute. However, once traffic finally cleared and I reached the airport, all my frustration vanished the moment I saw my brother and his smile and excitement.

Why people have to face traffic jams these days?
People face traffic jams these days due to increasing vehicle numbers, rapid urbanization, and inadequate road infrastructure. Poor traffic management, frequent road construction, and rule violations further contribute to congestion. Additionally, factors like accidents, encroachments, and bad weather worsen the situation, making daily commutes stressful and time-consuming.

 

Do you think developing public transportation will solve the traffic problem?
Yes, developing public transportation can significantly reduce traffic congestion, but it must be well-planned and efficiently managed. A reliable, affordable, and extensive public transit system encourages people to switch from private vehicles, reducing road congestion. Additionally, metro systems, buses, and carpooling options can help manage peak-hour traffic.
 

Do you think highways will reduce the traffic?
Yes, highways can help reduce traffic congestion by diverting long-distance and heavy vehicles away from city roads, improving overall traffic flow. Wider and well-maintained highways increase road capacity and reduce travel time. However, simply building highways is not enough—proper urban planning, efficient public transport, and traffic management are also essential to tackle congestion effectively.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

Describe an invention that is useful in daily life

Describe a crowded place you have been to

Describe a product you bought, but returned

Describe a successful businessperson you know

Describe a successful business person you admire