Brake Failure in Vehicle: Guide to Entering Emergency Run-Off Area on Toll Road

PURWAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Holidaymakers traversing toll roads with uphill and downhill sections, such as the Cipularang toll road, are advised to understand the procedures for using the emergency run-off area (JPD). This is particularly important if a vehicle encounters an emergency situation like brake failure during the Eid al-Fitr homecoming or return journey. This facility is specifically prepared to stop vehicles safely when brake function fails or other technical issues arise. Therefore, drivers should not hesitate to use it immediately in emergency conditions. “At that location, there is actually a special lane for vehicles entering the run-off area. The materials for the JPD have also been updated and redesigned in 2024,” said Agni to Kompas.com (16/3/2026). With this update, the emergency run-off area now has a higher level of safety. In fact, since the design improvements, there have been no fatalities among users of this facility. Technically, this lane uses special materials capable of gradually slowing vehicles even at high speeds. This allows vehicles to stop safely without the risk of further accidents. “This is because the materials used in the JPD are designed to stop high-speed vehicles gradually. So when a vehicle enters the run-off area, it will immediately slow down and stop safely,” she said. “Therefore, for road users experiencing conditions like brake failure, do not hesitate to enter the run-off area directly.” As is known, this special lane is located on the left side of the toll road (usually at sharp descents) and is designed to stop brake-failed vehicles safely using materials such as gravel, sand, or uphill structures. The emergency lane typically features an uphill section, about 20 metres long and 3 metres wide, covered with a mixture of sand and gravel for maximum friction. When experiencing braking issues, direct the vehicle into that lane, turn on the hazard lights, use engine braking, and apply the handbrake. By understanding these procedures, it is hoped that holidaymakers can make quick and correct decisions when facing emergencies, thereby avoiding the risk of fatal accidents during their journeys.