LPT2 in Good Condition, Pose No Threat to Motorists, Claims MIROS DG

Kuala Lumpur: Following recent reports claiming that 20% of LPT2 (East Coast Expressway 2) needs attention and Works Minister, Datuk Fadillah Yusoff's inspection of LPT2 in a road scanner and his statement that the few areas of the expressway are 'critical', Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) Director-General, Prof. Dr. Wong Shaw Voon has said that the structure and safety aspects of the LPT2 are in good condition and pose no threat to motorists.

The statement of MIROS - DG was based on the previous inspection of the LPT2 by Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), and Public Works Department (PWD) to find out the causes of accidents over there.

Post the inauguration of LPT2 in 2011, a total of 85 fatalities and 1,991 accidents has been reported on the expressway. Later, Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) has disclosed that 70% of accidents on LPT2 were due to human error, with the remaining 30% due to its faulty surface.

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According to a Bernama report, the Director-General of MIROS said, “There were some  silting in some areas with the uneven road surface, but this will not pose a problem to motorists if they drive at a reasonable speed. The long straight expressway is also a contributing factor to accidents occurring on the LPT2 as drivers would become bored and sleepy whilst driving on the expressway. This is also believed to be a factor, which prompted motorists to exceed the permissible speed limit.”

MIROS DG also advised motorists to take extra precautions and have a second driver should they travel long distances. “If you are tired, stop at the rest area, and if you are not feeling well, take medicine. Do not continue to drive,” he added.

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