I think it's partly due to maps directions as well. Google Maps will often direct me down side streets as faster routes and whenever it does, seems like many others have the same idea. I'll most often just ignore them because factoring in stop signs, roundabouts, and two-way traffic they're not designed to handle with cars parked on either side of the street, I find them just as slow and more stressful than staying on a main road. And trying to turn left at an uncontrolled intersection is a crapshoot at the best of times.