Riding in tunnels
It is important to know what to do, and particularly what not to do when driving in a tunnel. As a moped rider, it is not likely that you will deal with long traffic tunnels. But in short tunnels, you should also stick to a certain code of conduct.
Lighting
In tunnels, it is required to run the dipped headlight. If you do not have the dipped headlight turned on by default, turn it on well before entering the tunnel. Never use the full-beam headlight in a tunnel, as it can blind other traffic.
Even in lighted tunnels you are required to run the dipped headlight.
This sign indicates how long the tunnel that you are approaching is.
Behaviour
In a tunnel, there is little space to swerve. If you must overtake on the road half for oncoming traffic, do not overtake. In tunnels, drive extra defensively and do not take any risks. Aggressive and antisocial driving behaviour is never a good thing, but in tunnels, it leads to an unnecessarily high risk of accidents.
In addition, take into account the fact that when exiting a tunnel you will see less well for a little while, especially with bright sunlight. Your eyes need to adjust to the light again.
Breakdown
If you break down in a tunnel, then try to drive out of the tunnel first or push your vehicle out of the tunnel. If necessary, turn on the hazard lights if they are present. If you can no longer exit the tunnel while driving or pushing the vehicle, then stop as far to the right as possible. If there is a pavement in the tunnel, place your vehicle as far on the pavement as possible. Above all, cause as little danger and hindrance as possible.
If you come to a stop with your brommobiel in a busier traffic tunnel and you do cause extra danger in doing so, turn on the hazard lights if present, or place a warning triangle. Depending on what danger you pose, contact the breakdown service or the police.
Stand a good distance past your brommobiel yourself or walk out of the tunnel in the direction of travel.
Accident
In case of an accident, a few things are extremely important:
- Always think about your own safety first
If there is smoke or a fire in a tunnel, it is extremely dangerous. In that case, try to leave the tunnel immediately. Do keep in mind other traffic when doing so. Do not cause extra danger by, for example, driving against the flow of traffic. Leave the key in the ignition if you have to abandon your vehicle. In that case, emergency services can move your vehicle if necessary. - Notify the emergency services
Depending on the severity of the accident, call the emergency number 112 immediately. Keep in mind that, in a tunnel, you have poorer coverage with your mobile phone. If necessary, exit the tunnel. - Provide assistance
Try to warn other traffic and provide assistance to injured persons if possible and necessary. If smoke develops, try to get everyone outside.
From these signs you can see in which direction it is best to walk towards the nearest emergency exit. Do keep in mind that walking against the flow of traffic is always more dangerous than walking with the flow of traffic from your stationary vehicle. In that case, following drivers have already seen your vehicle and are then more alert for pedestrians on the carriageway.
