Infrastructure For Safe Distance Management On Expressways: Lessons From France For Vietnam

Abstract

Maintaining a safe distance is a key factor in preventing accidents on expressways. In practice, drivers estimate this distance based on experience, assistance from in-vehicle devices, or support from expressway infrastructure. However, the technical infrastructure on Vietnam’s expressways currently remains limited and lacks continuity in supporting safe distance determination. This study evaluates the current state of technical infrastructure supporting safe distance identification on Vietnamese expressways and compares it with the well-developed system in France. The research collects and analyzes domestic and international regulations, technical requirements, and practical implementations. Results show that infrastructures such as lane markings and signs in Vietnam are installed sporadically, without continuous coverage along the expressway, and are mostly absent in tunnels. In contrast, France systematically integrates safe distance support throughout the entire route, using elements like lane markings and blue lights or chevrons, including inside tunnels. Based on these comparisons, the study proposes improvements for Vietnam by integrating safe distance support into existing infrastructures, such as emergency lane markings, and adding visual signals in tunnels. These improvements should be standardized in regulations and circulars and incorporated into driver training programs to enhance implementation effectiveness and reduce accidents related to safe distance issues.