ETC Safe Driving Tips
Essential safety guidelines for driving through ETC gates and on Japan's expressways.
Highway Safety in Japan
Japan's expressways are among the safest in the world, but it's important to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe journey for yourself and others.
ETC Gate Safety
Reduce Speed to 20 km/h
Always slow down when approaching ETC gates. This gives the system time to communicate and allows you to stop safely if needed.
Check the Display
Look at the display panel as you approach. Green means go, red means stop. The toll amount will also be shown.
Maintain Safe Distance
Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. If their barrier doesn't open, you need time to stop.
General Expressway Safety
🛣️ Lane Discipline
- • Left lane for regular driving
- • Right lane for passing only
- • Return to left after passing
- • Don't tailgate
⚡ Speed Limits
- • Standard limit: 80-100 km/h
- • Some sections: 120 km/h
- • Tunnels may have lower limits
- • Follow posted signs
🚧 Construction Zones
- • Reduce speed in work zones
- • Follow temporary signage
- • Merge carefully
- • Stay alert for workers
🌧️ Weather Conditions
- • Slow down in rain/snow
- • Use headlights in tunnels
- • Increase following distance
- • Check road conditions before travel
Emergency Situations
Vehicle Breakdown
Pull over to the shoulder immediately. Turn on hazard lights. Place triangle reflector 50m behind vehicle. Call roadside assistance or use emergency phone.
Accident
Move to safety if possible. Call 110 (police) and 119 (ambulance) if injured. Do not admit fault. Exchange information with other parties. Contact your insurance.
Wrong Exit
Do NOT reverse on the expressway. Continue to the next exit or service area. You can request a "U-turn" at some rest areas with a valid reason.