DGT guidelines for driving when entering a tunnel

When we drive through tunnels, we are subject to dangers of which we are not always aware. For this reason, some advice should be taken into account

In Spain there are more than 400 tunnels on roads, the paths of which are about 200 kilometers long. Urban tunnels and underground passages have to be added to these figures, which is why some experts point out that the total length of tunnels in Spain is about 1,000 kilometers of track.

Although the accident rates in the tunnels do not differ much from those of the rest of the roads, the study ‘Puntos Rojos’, carried out by Línea Directa, which emphasizes the
urban roads with the highest accident rateplaces two tunnels between the six points with the highest accident rates in all of Spain, in Madrid and Alicante.

And it is that, when we circulate through tunnels, we are exposed to some dangers that we are not always aware of. For this reason, it is advisable to take into account some advice from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT):

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traffic lights: The first is obvious, if there is a red traffic light at the mouth of the tunnel, you are not allowed to enter. Not even if the driver sees that the traffic inside is at a standstill (there could be an emergency). In this case, the driver will stop the vehicle before getting in and turn on the hazard lights (warning) to warn those approaching from behind.

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lights and glasses: Before entering a tunnel, it is essential to turn on the lights -remember to turn them off when exiting-. However short the tunnel is, there is a warning sign in front of it (R-413). It is essential to be seen and seen, especially in the first few meters, when the driver’s eye needs time to get used to the change in light. And if you wear sunglasses, take them off when you enter and put them back on when you leave so you can be dazzled.

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Distance: When not overtaking -it is only allowed if there is more than one lane in each direction-, the driver must maintain a safety distance of at least 100 meters (or an interval of 4 seconds) from the vehicle in front of the car . And if it is a vehicle over 3,500 kg, 150 meters (and 6 seconds). As the possibilities of avoiding an obstacle are very limited, as is the access of emergency vehicles, it is essential to avoid accidents, so increasing the safety distance is essential.

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Brakes: Asphalt in tunnels generally has a poorer grip than on country roads, so the braking distance may be longer. This circumstance influences the need for a greater safety distance.

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Circulation stopped: If, due to traffic needs, traffic starts to stop in a tunnel, the driver must stop leaving a reasonable distance from the car in front of him and, without leaving the vehicle, activate the distress signal (warning) to those who are out behind; then stop the engine and leave the parking lights on.

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screen effect: Paradoxically, the tunnel effect does not take place in tunnels, as the name suggests, but in addition to the glare from the greater external lighting, another effect takes place: the ‘screen effect’. When the wind blows, the vehicle at the exit of the tunnel can be moved sideways due to the gusts. For this reason, it is necessary to leave already warned and prepared, hold the steering wheel firmly and slightly “turn” the wheels to the place where the wind is blowing.

Source: La Verdad

Ida

I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.