Recently, many drivers have expressed confusion regarding the "turn on headlight" sign when traversing the Thung Thi tunnel in Thanh Hoa, located on the North-South Expressway. Drivers contend that traffic laws mandate the use of low beams when driving through tunnels, while the sign appears to request high beams.
This misunderstanding stems from common Vietnamese linguistic habits. Many drivers, particularly those middle-aged and older, typically use the term "den pha" for high beams and "den cot" for low beams. However, the term "den pha" (headlight) on the sign simply denotes front lighting in general.
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"Turn on headlight" sign before Thung Thi tunnel (Thanh Hoa). *Google Maps screenshot.* |
The terms "pha" and "cot" originated from French, where "phare" refers to high beams and "codes" to low beams. As these terms became widely adopted in Vietnam, the meaning of "pha" narrowed, leading to misinterpretations in specific contexts, such as traffic signs.
The accompanying English text, "turn on headlight", on the sign before the tunnel clearly indicates a requirement to activate lights to ensure visibility in low-light environments like tunnels. If the intent were to require high beams, the English text would instead read "turn on high beam".
To prevent such misunderstandings, many drivers suggest modifying the Vietnamese text to "bat den chieu sang" (turn on lighting) or, more specifically, "bat den chieu gan" (turn on low beam).
According to Decree 168/2024 on road traffic violation penalties, vehicles operating in tunnels without activating low beams face fines. Car drivers are subject to a fine of VND 800,000-1,000,000, while motorcycle riders face a fine of VND 600,000-800,000.
Using high beams in tunnels poses risks. The intense light can dazzle oncoming or preceding drivers, thereby reducing their ability to see in an environment already constrained by limited light and visibility. In these conditions, utilizing low beams is the appropriate and safest option.
A correct understanding of the "bat den pha" sign enables drivers to react appropriately when entering tunnels. The sign's primary message is not to select high beam mode, but to ensure that vehicles have their lights activated when entering dark areas, enhancing driver observation and mitigating accident risk.
Ho Tan
