Tunnels allow for travel through mountains and under rivers or large cities, but they also present unique driving challenges due to their enclosed spaces. While tunnels make transportation more direct, driving through one requires extra safety precautions. This guide will outline best practices for tunnel driving as well as what to do in emergency situations like breakdowns, accidents, or fires. By understanding proper tunnel driving techniques, you can feel more confident and in control the next time you pass through one.
Tips for safely driving through a tunnel
Stay Safe with Proper Lane Use
The most important thing is to drive in the proper lane. Most tunnels have multiple lanes of traffic travelling in the same direction separated by lines or concrete barriers. Stay in the right-most lane unless you are passing another vehicle. This keeps the left lanes open for faster moving traffic and emergency vehicles. It also prevents last second lane changes which can cause accidents.
Use your mirrors regularly to check for merging traffic and signal well in advance before changing lanes. Do not stop in the tunnel – this creates a hazard and blocks traffic flow. In some places it is illegal to use the left lanes unless passing. Be aware that all lanes may not be clearly marked, so watch where other cars are driving to determine the lanes.
Illumination is Critical
Proper lighting is crucial in a dark tunnel without natural light. Make sure your headlights and fog lights (if equipped) are turned on before entering. This helps other drivers see you. Pay extra attention to your dash lights and gauges as well to make sure nothing is malfunctioning that could contribute to a problem in the low light.
Since glare from oncoming headlights can reduce visibility, it is a good idea to use your high beams only when no other vehicles are near. Conversely, be courteous and dim your high beams promptly when another vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. High beams should not be left on if traffic is heavy. Knowing when to turn high beams on and off takes practice but makes tunnel drives much safer for everyone.
Slow Your Speed
Reducing speed in a tunnel compared to normal highway limits is highly recommended. While posted speed limits still apply, conditions like echoes, low visibility, and confined spaces make higher speeds riskier. Leave extra braking distance between your vehicle and the one ahead in case you need to stop suddenly.
Most experts suggest cutting speeds by 10-20 mph from open highway limits. For example, if the limit is 65 mph, drive between 45-55 mph through tunnels. Slower speeds give you more reaction time to hazards and make any incident less severe. They also reduce the chances of losing control on wet pavement after a rainfall enters through openings at each end. Going the speed limit may not always be appropriate depending on tunnel size and conditions. Adjust according to comfort levels.
Size Up Tunnel Dimensions
Before driving any vehicle through a tunnel, take a moment to consider its height, width and overhead clearance. Large trucks, buses, RVs and vehicles towing trailers need to pay special attention so they do not get stuck or damage tunnel infrastructure by going in something too tall or wide. Some tunnels post maximum size restrictions at entrances.
It’s important to know the exact height, width, length and weight of your vehicle combination. Turning around in a tight space poses dangers. Have plans to take an alternate route if the tunnel seems unsuitable. Using a car top carrier, bike rack or other accessory that increases height could also cause issues. Be certain everything will fit with adequate clearance before driving through. Safety should outweigh convenience.
What to do if you break down in a tunnel?
If your vehicle experiences a problem in the tunnel like a flat tire, engine trouble or fender bender, pull over carefully to the far right emergency lane or shoulder if one is available. Turn on hazard lights and call or message for assistance as cell signals usually work.
Stay clear of other traffic lanes and stand well away from your vehicle. In some tunnels, call boxes or emergency stations are located along the inner walls – use these to contact tunnel operators. They can dispatch emergency crews, assist with repairs or provide a ride to exit the tunnel if needed. Trying to change a tire or make repairs in live traffic poses unnecessary risk. Wait safely and follow operator instructions.
In the event of a serious collision that blocks traffic or a passenger medical crisis, immediately pull over if possible and turn hazards on. Call for emergency aid describing the location and situation clearly. For crashes, set up emergency triangles or other warning reflectors behind vehicles a safe distance back from the scene.
Direct additional response crews to the incident when they arrive via radio or cell. For medical issues, start any necessary first aid like CPR until EMS takes over care. Tunnel operators may need to stop or divert traffic, so fully cooperate with their directions. Try to keep passengers or other victims calm while waiting for help to arrive as enclosed spaces can increase stress and anxiety during emergencies.
What to do if there’s a fire in the tunnel?
Rare but dangerous tunnel fires spread smoke and toxic gases very quickly within the confined airspace. If you detect smoke or flames up ahead, immediately slow down and pull over to the far right well away from the source. Turn hazards on and call or message for help stating “fire in the tunnel.”
Remain stopped with engine running and make sure vents or air intake are not drawing in smoke. Listen closely for instructions from emergency responders which may include exiting your vehicle and moving far from the fire. Have your keys, phone and other valuables readily accessible to evacuate quickly if needed. In some places, emergency walkways or alcoves lead to protected exits – head for these areas if stopped traffic is not backing up too much. Your top priorities are notifying authorities and getting away from heat and visibility obstacles as safely as possible.
Final Tips for Tunnel Driving
Additional reminders to keep in mind include avoiding distractions like cell phones, loud music or unsecured items in the vehicle. Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead. Check mirrors often as many tunnels have short entrance and exit zones with merging traffic. Obey all posted signs within tunnels for maximum safety.
With increasing infrastructure projects comes more tunnel travel, so familiarity with proper techniques is an important driving skill. By slowing down, using high beams thoughtfully, controlling distractions and knowing what to do in emergencies, you can relax more while passing through enclosed roadways. Just some simple adjustments to regular driving habits help make tunnels much safer for all motorists.
In summary, tunnels should not be feared but approached safely by following guidelines for lane use, illumination, reduced speeds and size considerations. Being alert and promptly pulling over or calling for emergency assistance also helps increase safety for both common occurrences like breakdowns and worst case scenarios like a collision or fire. With care and preparation, tunnels can be driven through with confidence.
