Two pile-ups on Vietnam highways blamed on tailgating

Two separate multi-vehicle accidents occurred on Vietnam's expressways within two days, damaging a total of 11 cars. The incidents, which happened on the Noi Bai - Lao Cai and Phan Thiet - Dau Giay routes on August 28 and 29, were both attributed to drivers failing to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

On the Phan Thiet - Dau Giay expressway, seven cars were involved in a chain collision at Km28+700. While no injuries were reported, all seven vehicles sustained damage, blocking a lane and causing traffic delays. Initial investigations by traffic police found no alcohol or drug impairment among the drivers. However, six drivers admitted to not keeping a safe distance, leading to the consecutive impacts.

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Drivers must strictly adhere to speed limits and regulations regarding safe distances. When driving in rain, on slippery roads, in fog, or at night, drivers should proactively increase their safe distance.

A similar incident occurred on the Noi Bai - Lao Cai expressway at Km57+200, involving five vehicles. This accident, which happened on August 28, also resulted in no injuries but damaged four vehicles. The cause was identified as a truck driver failing to adhere to safe distance regulations.

Traffic police cited these accidents as a stark warning about the risks of tailgating on highways. They emphasized that insufficient distance leaves drivers with inadequate time to react if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly, potentially triggering a cascade of collisions. Such accidents not only risk severe damage to life, health, and property but also cause significant traffic disruptions and increase the likelihood of secondary accidents.

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Drivers must absolutely avoid tailgating and always observe from a distance to be able to slow down promptly if the traffic ahead shows signs of slowing.