Korea Expressway Corporation Urges Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspections to Prevent Summer Highway Accidents

Increased Risk of Tire Damage Due to Higher-Than-Average Temperatures
Reduced Speed and Safe Following Distance Essential During the Rainy Season

The Korea Expressway Corporation has urged drivers to conduct pre-trip vehicle inspections to prevent highway accidents during the summer.

Increased Risk of Tire Damage Due to Higher Than Average Temperatures; Essential to Drive Slower and Maintain Safe Distance During the Rainy Season

This summer, temperatures are expected to rise above average, increasing the risk of vehicle defect-related accidents such as tire damage.

Recently, near the Cheonan Interchange on the Gyeongbu Expressway, a 25-ton dump truck was involved in an accident after a tire burst, colliding with roadside facilities and the central median barrier.

Additionally, near the Nonsan Yangchon Interchange on the Honam Expressway Branch, a cargo truck spilled its load onto the road due to speeding on a curve, resulting in an accident. Near the Bukchangwon Interchange on the Namhae Expressway, one person died in an accident caused by speeding on a wet road.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration’s three-month forecast, there is more than an 80% chance that the average temperature from June to August will be similar to or higher than usual, significantly increasing the risk of tire overheating and internal pressure buildup. In response, the Korea Expressway Corporation recommends thoroughly checking tire pressure and tread wear before driving, and ensuring coolant levels are sufficient.

In particular, during the rainy season starting at the end of June, wet road surfaces extend braking distances and increase the frequency of skidding accidents. It is necessary to drive 20?50% slower than the speed limit and maintain a greater-than-usual safe following distance.

Although cargo trucks account for about 14% of all registered vehicles, they are involved in more than half of fatal highway accidents over the past five years, indicating a high fatality rate and the need for extra caution. When heavy cargo falls onto the road, it also increases the risk of secondary accidents and worsens traffic congestion.

A Korea Expressway Corporation official emphasized, "During the summer, please make sure to inspect your vehicle and practice safe driving at all times."