SCTEX upgrades safety measures for night driving

MANILA, Philippines - As the number of vehicles using the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) continues to increase steadily, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) — the tollway’s owner and builder, is stepping up its campaign to keep the SCTEX safe, particularly for motorists driving at night.

“Based on statistics from here and overseas, more vehicle accidents occur during the night time,” said Robert Gervacio, SCTEX program manager. “We are committed to make sure that the SCTEX has the necessary features to ensure safety while traveling at night, especially now when more and more people are using the tollway.”

But, motorists must also do their part – by strictly observing speed limits and by driving defensively all the time,” Gervacio pointed out.

In conformity with global standards, lamp posts at the SCTEX are placed 500 to 800 meters before and after each interchange to illuminate entrance ramps, exit ramps, toll plazas and all major bridges (400 meters or longer).

“Thus, motorists driving at night are advised that when they approach lighted lamp posts, they should be aware that they are nearing an interchange or entering a major bridge way,” said Gervacio.

The other SCTEX night safety features include ample reflectorized traffic cones and reflectorized road signs. One unique night safety feature is the retroreflective raised pavement markers (RPMs). RPMs are durable, highly reflective markers used for longitudinal lines that serve as a guide when driving. The RPMs or “cat’s eyes” are the primary means to improve wet-night visibility. “Through all these safety features and equipment, motorists will be able to avoid hazards when driving at night,” Gervacio said.

Motorists, he noted, should also remember that, at night, 20/20 vision is reduced to about 20/50, so they must drive at a speed that permits them to stop within their range of vision. “As a rule, the speed limit that is reasonable for daytime is too fast at night,” he continued. “Motorists must observe night driving safety as soon as the sun goes down.”

For the safety and convenience of motorists, security teams are strategically deployed along the tollway to ensure that help is just 20 minutes away at any point along the SCTEX. Motorists needing roadside assistance can call the following SCTEX hotlines (0920) 96-SCTEX (72839), (045) 865-2030, (02) 362-9997 and (02) 362-2246.

The handbook also urges motorists to be extra cautious when driving at twilight. “Twilight,” it says, “is one of the most difficult times to drive because your eyes are constantly changing to adapt to the growing darkness. Keep your headlights on. This may not help you to see but you can be seen by other drivers, thereby decreasing the likelihood of an accident.”

Linking the three major economic zones of Central Luzon – the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the Clark Freeport Zone and the Central Techno Park in Tarlac – the 94-kilometer SCTEX is currently handling an average daily traffic volume of some 30,000 vehicles. With its seamless connection to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), it now offers the fastest route from Metro Manila to the provinces of Central and Northern Luzon.

“Travel time between Manila and Tarlac City, for example, just takes an hour and 25 minutes through the SCTEX and NLEX,” said Gervacio. “And a growing number of motorists are discovering and taking advantage of this fact.”

During this year’s Holy Week, traffic volume on the SCTEX went up sharply, posting a new record high of nearly 40,000 vehicles on Easter Sunday, 15 percent higher than the total registered on Easter 2009. With the opening on classes in June, traffic volume is expected to surge anew.