The recent fatal road traffic accident on the Tsing Ma Bridge highlights the present hazardous Hong Kong highway design practices.
The crash barriers which separate diverging lanes provide no method to absorb safely the impact of collision. Indeed, they either impale the vehicle or launch it into the air, or across the carriageway.
Throughout Hong Kong the prevailing safety structures are lighted, non-rigid stanchions, signage at the point of probable impact, and painted lines on the road surface.
The Transport Department would be well-advised to study the American system of barricading impact points with plastic barrels full of water or sand; or energy absorbing impact barriers which conform to the end of the divider. These collapsible obstacles mitigate post-collision damage.
Before the Transport Department replies that it meets international standards, it should consider that the Tsing Ma Bridge, considered to be one of Hong Kong's most 'modern' roads, meets these standards.
HENRY L. PARSONT Parlin, New Jersey, US
