If you’re in a traffic jam with cars backed up for at least a block, it’s safest to get in line with the cars and wait it out. But if you do squeeze between the cars to get through, here’s what to watch for:

• A car door can open in front of you, on the left or right, at any time. Look inside cars for passengers who might get out. Keep your hands on your brake levers.
• When pedestrians cross the street in the middle of a traffic jam, the last thing they expect is you zooming down on them between the cars. Watch out for pedestrians, especially when passing trucks or buses that you can’t see in front of.
• If a space opens up in the traffic jam—and you’re near a driveway or cross street—watch for a car from the opposite direction turning into your path.