Safe Tips for Using the Highway Shoulder to Stay Safe on Your Journey
Using the shoulder of the road on the toll road is not something that can be done carelessly. The recent accident on the Pemalang Toll Road in Central Java involving media crews serves as a reminder for all of us. The shoulder of the road, which is located on the far left side, is an area that should only be used in emergencies, such as when a vehicle experiences serious problems.
For Daihatsu friends and other road users, it is important to understand the rules and safe tips for using the shoulder of the road to stay safe and not endanger other road users. This article will explain in detail the safe tips for stopping on the shoulder of the road and the government regulations that govern it.
The Importance of Using the Toll Road Shoulder Safely & Tips
The shoulder of the toll road is often used when vehicles face obstacles, such as breakdowns, load issues, or driver physical disturbances. However, it is important to always be cautious and follow the correct procedures when using the shoulder of the road. This area is directly adjacent to the road space (rumija), which usually consists of empty land or grass, so there is no protection from the fast-moving traffic on the toll road.
To ensure that using the shoulder of the road does not endanger yourself or other road users, here are some safe tips to follow:
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Reduce Speed and Signal
- Before entering the shoulder of the road, make sure to gradually reduce speed. Turn on the left turn signal to indicate to drivers behind that you will be moving to the shoulder of the road.
- Pay attention to the traffic conditions around you, especially vehicles behind you, and ensure you can safely move to the shoulder of the road.
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Activate Hazard Lights Immediately After Stopping
- Once the vehicle has safely stopped on the shoulder of the road, immediately turn on the hazard lights. This is important to warn other drivers that your car is in an emergency condition.
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Place Warning Triangle 50 Meters Away
- Place a warning triangle behind the car at a distance of about 50 meters from the vehicle. This sign serves as an early warning for other drivers so they can see that there is a vehicle stopped on the shoulder of the road from a distance.
- Proper placement of the warning triangle helps other drivers adjust their speed and avoid danger.
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Do Not Stand Behind or on the Right Side of the Car
- To maintain safety, drivers and passengers should remain inside the car, especially if traffic conditions are dense or there are large vehicles passing by. Avoid standing behind the car or on the right side of the shoulder as this is a high-risk accident area.
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Contact Emergency Services If Necessary
- If the problem with the vehicle cannot be resolved on your own, you can contact the toll road emergency services through emergency phones available at several points along the toll road. This emergency service is ready to help resolve issues or move your vehicle to a safer location.
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Continue Your Journey Immediately After the Problem is Resolved
- Once the problem with the vehicle has been resolved, continue your journey immediately. Make sure to pay attention to traffic conditions before returning to the main lane. Turn on the right turn signal and gradually accelerate the vehicle to safely merge back into the flow of traffic.
Also Read: 7 Regulations on Toll Roads That Drivers Need to Know to Stay Safe
Government Regulations Regarding the Use of the Toll Road Shoulder
The use of the toll road shoulder is regulated in Government Regulation (PP) Number 23 of 2024 Article 69 paragraph (2). Here are the complete rules regarding the use of the toll road shoulder that drivers need to understand:
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Used as Traffic Flow in Emergency Situations
- The shoulder of the road can be used for traffic flow in emergency conditions, for example, if there is a total or partial disruption on the main lane due to accidents or other incidents that obstruct traffic flow.
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Used for Stopping in Emergency Situations
- Drivers may stop on the toll road shoulder only in emergency situations, such as when the vehicle breaks down, needs to secure a load, the driver experiences physical disturbances, or there is a traffic disruption that requires temporary stopping.
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Not Used for Towing, Pulling, or Pushing Vehicles
- The shoulder of the road must not be used for towing, pulling, or pushing damaged vehicles. This process must be carried out in a safe area and not disrupt traffic flow.
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Not Used for Picking Up or Dropping Off Anything
- The shoulder of the road must not be used for the purpose of picking up or dropping off passengers, goods, or animals. Using the shoulder of the road for this purpose can endanger other drivers.
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Not Used to Overtake Other Vehicles
- The shoulder of the road must not be used to overtake vehicles. Using the shoulder of the road as an additional lane to speed up travel or overtake other vehicles is strictly prohibited and highly risky.
In addition to these five points, it is not advisable to stop on the toll road shoulder for any reason, including due to drowsiness. If the driver feels sleepy, it is recommended to exit at the nearest rest area and take a short break before continuing the journey.
Using the toll road shoulder safely is an important step in maintaining safety on the road, both for oneself and for other road users. The shoulder of the road should only be used in emergencies, and its use must follow the proper procedures. By understanding and adhering to these rules, Daihatsu friends and other drivers can remain safe while driving.
