NavTraffic is a service you can pay to get real-time traffic data over satellite in certain areas:
XM NavTraffic Overview - SiriusXM Radio
FM Traffic is a similar, despite it's name subscription, service transmitted through FM radio:
Traffic Message Channel - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
You really have to use the traffic service in your area to know it's going to work. For example I've driven through Tampa, FL and Jacksonville, FL and their traffic reporting is excellent. Compared to Miami, FL the coverage is spotty and mainly highways. It all boils down to how well the city/county manages their roads and how effectively they can communicate this with 3rd parties. If you're frequently visiting different areas during peak traffic hours I suggest you give it a try, if you have good data and good re-route calculations it can cut down your drive times.