What is the core problem Miros aims to solve with advisory speed limits?

Question

Accepted Answer

Miros Aims to Solve Lane Hogging and Improve Traffic Flow With Advisory Speed Limits

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) is implementing a proof-of-concept project to introduce minimum advisory speed limits primarily to address the issue of "lane hogging." This initiative seeks to maintain smoother traffic flow, reduce driver frustration, and mitigate dangerous bottlenecks that arise when slow-moving vehicles impede faster traffic in the rightmost lanes. The project, running until October 31, involves Miros in collaboration with the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), PLUS Malaysia Berhad, and the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE).
Addressing Lane Monopolisation

The core strategy of this pilot project is to tackle lane monopolisation by encouraging drivers to select lanes appropriate for their vehicle's speed. By providing guidance on minimum speeds for different lanes, Miros aims to naturally encourage slower traffic to remain in the left or middle lanes, thereby freeing up the faster lanes for vehicles capable of maintaining higher speeds. This measure is intended to improve overall highway efficiency and reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by speed differentials.
Pilot Project Locations and Duration

The proof-of-concept is being tested at three specific locations to gather data on driver behaviour. These include sections of the North-South Expressway (PLUS) E1 between KM400.1 and KM388.0 northbound, the SKVE E26 from KM9.6 to KM16.7, and a stretch of the PLUS E2 between KM267.8 and KM278.8 northbound. Miros will collect and analyse data from these sites until October 31 to assess the effectiveness of the advisory speeds before considering a nationwide expansion.
Advisory Speed Recommendations

The recommended minimum speeds vary by lane. On the left lane, the advisory minimum speed is 60 km/h, suitable for cruising or slower traffic. The middle lane has an advisory minimum of either 80 km/h or 60 km/h, depending on the highway's configuration. For the rightmost lane, the recommendation is a minimum of 100 km/h on highways with three to four lanes, and 80 km/h on expressways with two lanes. These speeds are advisory, meaning they are not legally enforceable, and drivers are still expected to prioritise safety and adjust their speed based on prevailing conditions.
International Precedents for Minimum Speed Limits

Malaysia is not pioneering the concept of minimum speed limits; similar measures are already in practice in other countries. Germany, for instance, utilises minimum speeds on sections of its Autobahn, typically around 60 km/h, to prevent slower vehicles from obstructing faster traffic. Japan also enforces minimum speeds of 50 km/h on many expressways to enhance efficiency and decrease the risk of rear-end collisions. Several states in the United States also employ minimum speed limits in specific areas to prevent excessively slow vehicles from becoming hazards. These international examples demonstrate a global effort to improve traffic flow and safety through such advisory measures.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What is the core problem Miros aims to solve with advisory speed limits?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

2

0

0

Share with friends