A driver on Xinjiang’s Duoku Highway lost control in a tunnel after being blinded by oncoming high-beam headlights, striking a flock of sheep and killing 32. Police ruled the driver fully liable and required full compensation, citing tunnel-specific right-of-way rules for livestock.

Social Context

China’s Road Traffic Safety Law Implementation Regulations mandate low-beam use in tunnels and require drivers to yield to livestock in rural and pastoral zones—especially where signage indicates animal crossings. In Xinjiang, such provisions reflect longstanding pastoral coexistence policies, yet enforcement varies across remote highway corridors.

Safety Tip

Always use low-beam headlights in tunnels and scan for animal movement signs before entering mountainous or pastoral road tunnels.