What Should Drivers Do When Their Vehicle Is About to Exit a Tunnel?
3 Answers
When approaching the exit of a tunnel, drivers should maintain a slower speed, carefully observe the situation at the tunnel exit, avoid stopping at the exit after leaving the tunnel, and remember to turn off the vehicle's headlights. Below are the relevant guidelines: 1. Before entering the tunnel: Carefully observe the traffic signs and written instructions at the entrance, including height and width restrictions. Vehicles that do not meet the requirements are strictly prohibited from entering the tunnel. Drivers must turn on the low beam headlights in advance and reduce their speed below the posted limit. 2. Inside the tunnel: Avoid stopping, honking unnecessarily, or overtaking other vehicles. Maintain a steady speed and proceed in order. 3. Single-lane tunnels: Before entering a single-lane tunnel, carefully check for oncoming traffic and ensure that passage is permitted. If allowed, sound the horn appropriately or turn on the width indicator lights. 4. Dual-lane tunnels: When entering a dual-lane tunnel, drive on the right side, turn on the lights as needed, pay attention to oncoming vehicles, and generally avoid honking inside the tunnel.
I just came back from a long trip, so I have a lot to say about this. The most terrifying moment is when the sudden strong light blinds you right after exiting the tunnel—your eyes simply can't adjust fast enough. I always start slowing down about 100 meters in advance, gradually reducing speed from 80 km/h to around 60 km/h. Checking the rearview mirror is a must to prevent tailgating cars from braking too late. The tunnel exit is particularly prone to scraping the right-side guardrail, so slight steering adjustments are needed to stay centered. Many tunnel exits now have crosswind warning signs, so grip the steering wheel more firmly. Temporarily lowering the stereo volume helps focus on external sounds. Most crucially, never rush to change lanes—drive straight for about 100 meters past the solid white lines before considering overtaking, safety first! Last time, a colleague got a ticket and nearly rear-ended someone by overtaking hastily after exiting a tunnel.
Having driven a taxi for ten years, I've seen too many accidents at tunnel exits. Drivers must develop the habit of turning on their lights in tunnels, but they should switch off high beams 200 meters before exiting to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. I usually shield my eyes with my left hand against the sudden glare when exiting, which is quicker than switching sunglasses. The transition from asphalt to concrete can cause bumps, making the steering wheel prone to drifting—stay extra alert. Crosswinds suddenly blowing from ventilation shafts are the most dangerous, especially noticeable in SUVs. Never accelerate sharply within three seconds after exiting a tunnel; once, I saw a car ahead get blown sideways across two lanes. Rainy or foggy days are worse—if the windshield fogs up instantly, immediately turn on the defroster.
