Tunnels create specific hazards: limited lighting, confined space, restricted escape routes, and the risk of fire or carbon monoxide buildup. Swedish tunnels have mandatory safety rules.
Before Entering
Switch on dipped headlights before entering — in Sweden this is required in tunnels regardless of length or time of day. Remove sunglasses. Check your fuel level; running out in a tunnel is extremely dangerous.
Inside the Tunnel
Keep a safe following distance — at least double the normal distance, since stopping distances are harder to judge in tunnel lighting. Maintain your lane. Speed limits inside tunnels are strictly enforced. Do not use high beam as it reflects off tunnel walls and blinds oncoming drivers.
In an Emergency
If you must stop, pull into an emergency bay (orange-lit niches in the tunnel wall). Turn off the engine, take the key, and leave the vehicle. Follow emergency exit signs (green) to reach safety. Do not turn around and drive back against traffic.
Exam tip: In a tunnel fire, do not stay in the vehicle. Carbon monoxide from a fire will incapacitate you within minutes. Always follow the green emergency exit signs on foot.