What are the reasons why vehicles are prone to skidding in tunnels?
4 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.
After years of driving, I've found that skidding in tunnels is mainly caused by slippery road surfaces. The enclosed environment of tunnels lacks ventilation, allowing rainwater or moisture to accumulate faster, making the road surface as slippery as if it were greased. Additionally, the sudden change in light at the tunnel entrance makes it hard to see the road conditions, causing drivers to panic and slam on the brakes, which can lead to loss of tire traction and loss of control. Tunnel temperatures are also higher than outside, making it easier for fog to form on the road surface in summer, while in winter, icy patches may appear near the tunnel entrance. Oil leaks from other vehicles sticking to the road further increase the risk of skidding. Worn-out tires or insufficient tire pressure make skidding even worse in such conditions. I've developed a habit while driving: before entering a tunnel, I gradually slow down by braking early, maintain a steady speed, and use a lower gear to stabilize the car, which helps avoid skidding and ensures safe driving.
As a safety-conscious driver, I've noticed that skidding in tunnels stems from light variations and reduced friction. The stagnant air inside tunnels prevents moisture dispersion, keeping the road surface slightly damp and slippery, especially after rain. The smooth pavement material decreases tire traction, making skidding more likely during speeding or sharp turns. The transition from bright to dim tunnel lighting requires eye adjustment time, and distracted drivers face higher risks. Temperature fluctuations affect tire performance—for instance, significant temperature differences can cause rubber deformation, compromising grip. For prevention, I recommend regular tire replacements, maintaining moderate speeds, gently applying brakes (not slamming them) when entering/exiting tunnels, keeping sufficient following distance, and minimizing lane changes to reduce accident risks.
