Truck Accidents Due To Blong Brakes Continue To OCCUR, Expert: The Importance Of Rem System Understanding

JAKARTA - The accident that occurred at the exit crossing of the Bawen Toll Road, Semarang, Central Java, on Saturday, September 23, 2023, again highlighted the serious problems that often occur on the highway caused by the failed brakes on the truck.

Jusri Pulubuhu, a Highway Safety practitioner and founder of Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting (JDDC), explained that cases like this often occur because truck drivers do not understand the vehicle braking system.

"In trucks, there are various types of brakes such as service brake, exhaust brake, and parking brake, each with different functions. For full air brakes (which are often used on trucks), it should not be used for routine slowdown or significant slowdown. On the other hand, we can use an exhaust brake that can prevent overheating in the braking system," said Jusri when contacted by VOI on Monday, September 25.

Jusri emphasized that the role of drivers is very important in preventing accidents, including how to operate brakes, control vehicles, and other things. Unfortunately, in Indonesia, this is often ignored.

"In Indonesia, trucks often use service brakes when braking, emitting smoke and when sliding, the coupling is neutralized. This is a very dangerous behavior and should be avoided. The absence of exhaust brake can cause overheating in braking systems, resulting in loss of clove power and often referred to as 'blong brakes'," added Jusri.

Jusri also noted that this behavior has become commonplace on Indonesian highways, including toll roads. However, truck drivers often do not consider the risks that may occur as a result of this behavior.

He added that this problem was not only caused by the negligence of the driver, but also by the lack of attention from various parties, including the government, company, and society.

"The government needs to increase standardization, companies must be stricter in the selection of driver recruitment and training, and the public must also pay more attention to safety in choosing transportation," concluded Jusri.