Security in the tunnel: important tips for drivers in the Werra-Meißner-Kreis

Security in the tunnel: important tips for drivers in the Werra-Meißner-Kreis

On February 16, 2025, numerous tunnels were created in the Werra-Meißner district by building the Autobahn 44. Particularly not only to be emphasized is the Hirschhagen tunnel, which is not only the longest tunnel of the A 44, but has also made a name for itself as the second longest motorway tunnel in Germany. This tunnel has an impressive length of 4.1 kilometers and was built in a geologically challenging environment. The tunneal center in Eschwege monitors and controls the operation of the Hirschhagen tunnel, including CO measurements and fire detection, which is of crucial importance for the safety of road users. HNA reports that ...

These developments to improve traffic routes have contributed to creating a more efficient connection between the Benelux countries in the west and Poland in the east. In the construction of the Hirschhagen tunnel, innovative support methods were used, including the AT - Pipe Umbrella System, which was specially developed for difficult soil conditions. These technical innovations promote not only security, but also the speed of the construction. According to tunnels infrastructures, one reports that ... more than 50,000 meters of the pipe have been installed in recent years.

behavior in the tunnel in incidents

The police provide clear instructions for the behavior of drivers in the Hirschhagen tunnel, especially in the case of traffic jams, breakdowns or accidents. The low beam must be switched on while driving, and the top speed and the distance to the vehicle in front must be observed. In addition, the traffic signs and traffic lights in the tunnel must be observed. The radio should also be active to receive current traffic information.

With a traffic jam, it is important to switch on the warning indicator and form a rescue alley. Drivers are encouraged to drive to the edge of the road with their vehicles, if possible, to create space for emergency services in the middle. With long downtimes you should also park the engine without leaving the vehicle.

Creating emergencies correctly

In the event of an accident in the tunnel, it is essential to observe the general rules of accidents according to paragraph 34 StVO. This includes marking the accident site, starting holding bays and wearing a warning vest when leaving the vehicle and securing the accident site with a warning triangle. In the event of a fire, a safety distance from the fire must be observed, and the vehicle should be parked on the right side of the road while the engine is parked. In such an emergency, the emergency exits and the fire alarm must be triggered at the nearest emergency call station.

The tunnel control center decides on the special situation like the blocking of the tunnel in a critical incident, which makes the security procedures in the tunnel an elementary part of the tunnel architecture. So far, there have been no major damage events in the tunnels in the Werra-Meißner district. This speaks for the careful planning and security concepts that apply in the construction and in the construction of this important traffic artery.