A multi-vehicle collision occurred on 22/9 in the lane closest to the median on Quoc Lo 5, where traffic was heavy and vehicles were close together. The incident began when a car in front braked abruptly, causing a container truck to brake suddenly to stop. Immediately after, a truck sped forward, hitting the rear of the container truck. This impact pushed the container truck into the car ahead. A chain reaction followed as another container truck from behind sped into the rear of the initial truck. Fortunately, a subsequent vehicle managed to stop just in time, avoiding further damage.

To prevent such incidents, drivers on national highways with high traffic density must maintain safe distances, especially when operating heavy-duty vehicles. While the law does not specify a concrete safe distance for speeds below 60 km/h, drivers should proactively keep enough space to brake and stop. It is important to note that the braking distance and time for trucks are significantly greater than for passenger cars.

Drivers should also observe far ahead to anticipate traffic situations early. Large vehicles can obstruct the view if attention is only focused on close distances. If multiple brake lights illuminate simultaneously in the distance, drivers should immediately release the accelerator and gently tap the brake pedal, rather than waiting for the vehicle directly in front to react. Creating an escape route from a distance helps prevent being trapped in a tight spot during a sudden stop.

Another chain collision, similar to this incident, occurred on 6/4 in Cho Dau, Hung Yen. In that event, multiple oto slowed down and stopped, but the last truck in line hit hard, causing a multi-vehicle pile-up.

Nguyen Vu