Editor’s note: From time to time we’ll have content on the blog that might be region-specific or a little off-topic in terms of our normally product-focused postings. Just think of it like a little somethin’ somethin’ extra. 

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Commuters and soccer moms alike know that driving in the Bay Area is a challenge of its own. The highway lanes aren’t as wide as Los Angeles, and San Francisco has one of the highest population density rates in the United States. Carpool lanes are sparse and typically ineffective anyway.

The goal of the Bay Area driver is to get around the traffic and arrive at their location as quickly, easily, and safely as possible. With most smartphone apps, you’ll only get direct directions to your destination. No traffic info, no alternative routes.  Waze, however, keeps up-to-date on the slowdowns, accidents, speedtraps, and more in the area – all with the help of real drivers. There is also the ability to learn new routes to redirect drivers stuck in traffic, so goodbye rush hour and hello smooth sailing.

East Bay

The East Bay includes the counties Alameda and Contra Costa. Through these two counties, the Interstates 80, 680, 580, 880, 238, and Routes 92, 84, and 4 run. That comes out to eight major thorough ways for drivers to travel on, or get stuck in traffic on. The following are three major areas of traffic in the East Bay.

Altamont Pass

The Altamont Pass connects the Central Valley (e.g. Tracy, Stockton) with the East Bay cities of Pleasanton, Livermore, and everything west of that point via Interstate 580. Commuters pack the freeway westbound during morning commute hours and create a heavy flow eastbound at the end of the workday. The 580 connects with the I-680. Take the 238 to connect to 880 South, or continue on the 580 to arrive at the 880 North. Waze will be able to reroute you around the dreaded traffic, which can be tough, especially with heavy construction going on around the junctions. The app learns routes, and can help you determine the best with the assistance of other wazers in your area.

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