Expressway overpass in Vietnam poses high accident risk due to darkness

Residents in Phu Yen ward, Dak Lak province, are expressing growing anxiety over safety concerns at the Chi Thanh - Van Phong expressway overpass, citing a lack of lighting and hazardous road conditions. Multiple accidents have been reported at both ends of the overpass, prompting fears of further incidents as traffic volume increases.

One resident, Huynh Thi Tram, recounted a frightening incident where a motorcyclist lost control on the downhill slope of the overpass and crashed into her property, injuring her husband. "I am extremely worried. I don't know if more cars and motorbikes will crash into my house as they come down the slope," she stated, highlighting the direct threat to homes near the overpass.

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I am extremely worried. I don't know if more cars and motorbikes will crash into my house as they come down the slope.

The western side of the overpass features a steep descent directly towards a residential area. The eastern side presents its own dangers, with a straight lane followed by a sharp turn into a residential access road. This configuration poses significant challenges for larger vehicles and increases the risk of collisions, evidenced by damaged roadside markers.

Compounding the danger is the complete lack of lighting on the overpass at night, rendering it a "pitch black" zone. Local resident Le Xuan Trung described a near-miss incident due to poor visibility, emphasizing the urgent need for lighting, additional traffic signals to control speed, and improved lane access for vehicles entering the main road. Local authorities have requested the project investor, Project Management Board 7 of the Ministry of Construction, to address these traffic organization issues and ensure the lighting system is operational before the project's official handover.

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The entire overpass is pitch black at night. I have poor eyesight and almost hit a cyclist in front of me. Lights must be turned on soon on the overpass, and traffic signals should be installed to make vehicles slow down.