What are the key risks on hilly roads like Jalan Karak Lama?

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Key Risks on Hilly Roads Identified in Road Safety Incidents

A recent road tragedy along Jalan Karak Lama in Bentong, Pahang, involving a car and a lorry, underscores several inherent risks associated with travelling on hilly terrain. The incident, which resulted in the fatalities of six men in the car and serious injuries to the lorry driver, highlighted the dangers that can arise from the specific characteristics of such roads. Preliminary investigations suggest the car may have veered into the opposite lane while descending a hill, leading to the collision.
Increased Likelihood of Losing Control on Descents

Hilly roads present a unique challenge due to the constant influence of gravity on vehicles travelling downhill. This force can accelerate a vehicle more rapidly than on a flat surface, increasing the risk of losing control, particularly if the driver is not accustomed to managing speed on gradients. The ability of the vehicle's braking system to cope with sustained use on a descent is also a critical factor, as overheating can lead to reduced effectiveness.
Reduced Visibility and Sharp Bends

The topography of hilly areas often includes sharp bends and winding paths, which can severely limit a driver's visibility of oncoming traffic or potential hazards ahead. As vehicles navigate these curves, especially during descents, the limited sight lines make it more difficult to react in time to unexpected situations, such as vehicles entering their lane or debris on the road. This was a potential factor in the Jalan Karak Lama incident, where the car reportedly entered the opposite lane.
Interaction with Oncoming Traffic

The combination of descents, sharp bends, and often narrower road widths on hilly routes heightens the danger posed by oncoming traffic. Drivers must be vigilant about maintaining their position within their designated lane, especially when visibility is compromised. An unexpected drift into the opposing lane, as suggested in the preliminary findings of the Bentong crash, can have catastrophic consequences when faced with an oncoming vehicle.
Influence of Environmental Factors on Road Conditions

Beyond the inherent design of hilly roads, environmental conditions can significantly exacerbate the risks. Adverse weather, such as heavy rain, can reduce the grip between tyres and the road surface, making it harder to control a vehicle, especially during braking or cornering. Fog can further diminish visibility, compounding the challenges presented by the terrain. While not explicitly detailed in the context of the Jalan Karak Lama incident, these factors are generally recognised as contributing to the hazardous nature of travel on such roads.

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What are the key risks on hilly roads like Jalan Karak Lama?

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