We propose a distributed, collaborative traffic congestion detection and dissemination system using VANET that makes efficient use of the communication channel, maintains location privacy, and provides drivers with real-time information on traffic congestions over long distances. The system uses vehicles themselves, equipped with simple inexpensive devices, as gatherers and distributors of information without the need for costly road infrastructure such as sensors, cameras or external communication equipment. Additionally, we present a flexible simulation and visualization framework we designed and developed to validate our system by showing its effectiveness in multiple scenarios and to aid in the research and development of this and future VANET applications. / by Francisco M. Padron. / Thesis (M.S.C.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2009. / Includes bibliography. / Electronic reproduction. Boca Raton, Fla., 2009. Mode of access: World Wide Web.