What are the reasons why vehicles are prone to skidding in tunnels?
2 Answers
It may be due to environmental factors that make tunnel surfaces prone to moisture and slipperiness; vehicle exhaust and oil deposits on the road surface form a layer of oil film. Here are some precautions to avoid vehicle skidding: Avoid sudden acceleration: When starting the car, do not accelerate too abruptly. Always apply the throttle moderately and slowly to prevent sudden forward movement, which can easily cause the car to skid if the steering wheel is not properly controlled. Avoid sudden braking: When stopping or slowing down, do not slam on the brakes. Instead, use a pumping motion by pressing and releasing the brake pedal gradually to bring the car to a slow stop. Maintain a steady speed: While driving, maintain a constant speed. If an emergency requires acceleration, do so gradually to prevent sudden acceleration, which can cause the car to skid sideways.
Vehicles are prone to skidding in tunnels, and I believe the key reason is that the road surface in enclosed spaces is more likely to be slippery. The poor air circulation in tunnels makes it difficult for moisture or rainwater to evaporate, often leaving standing water or oil stains on the road, which significantly reduces the friction between tires and the ground. Temperature fluctuations are also significant—for example, temperatures rise upon entering the tunnel, causing tire rubber to soften and reducing grip, especially for older tires with severe wear. Sometimes, tunnel materials like concrete have smooth, textureless surfaces, unlike regular roads that offer better traction. Lighting transitions add to the problem, as drivers' eyes need time to adjust from bright to dark or vice versa, leading to distraction and misjudgment. Speeding or sudden braking under these conditions can easily cause the vehicle to skid. It is advisable to reduce speed below the limit before entering a tunnel, check tire pressure, maintain a safe following distance, and drive even more cautiously in rainy conditions to minimize accident risks.
