Laser devices like these are often installed on Chinese highways to help reduce driver fatigue at night. Techblog
The use of lasers will be tested at three high-risk locations on the Phnom Penh–Preah Sihanouk Expressway from Thursday, June 19, with the goal of reducing accidents caused by driver fatigue at night.
The Phnom Penh–Preah Sihanouk Expressway Company announced to today that the trials will begin at kilometre markers K77+990, K113+700, and K115+750 — sections of road identified as high-risk areas for night time accidents.
“To enhance travel safety and reduce night time traffic accidents due to driver fatigue, we are preparing to install laser beam devices designed to stimulate drivers’ alertness and help reduce fatigue, thereby improving attentiveness during night time driving,” it stated.
According to the company, the devices will emit green laser beams at an upward angle of about 45 degrees, directed opposite the flow of traffic, and can project visible light across a distance of approximately 4 to 5 kilometres.
Despite their power, the devices are not expected to pose any hazard to drivers. In fact, they may even enhance the visual appeal of the roadway.
Recently, the company’s safety team, in cooperation with expressway traffic police, conducted awareness campaigns for expressway users. Their activities included distributing brochures about the expressway rules, highlighting common causes of accidents and reinforcing safety principles for drivers to ensure safer travel.
During the one-week period from June 2 to June 8, a total of 107,160 vehicle movements were recorded on the expressway. 186 calls were made to the emergency hotline 1399, including 1 traffic accident, 89 requests for roadside assistance and 96 inquiries for advice or information.
The company appealed to all citizens to strictly follow expressway usage guidelines and obey road traffic laws. It specifically urged drivers not to speed or drive against traffic flow.
In 2024, total vehicle usage of the expressway reached 5,290,483 vehicles, up from 4,910,479 in 2023 — a small increase of 380,004 vehicles, or 7 per cent.
There were 236 accidents recorded in 2024, compared to 319 in 2023 including 89 night time accidents, a drop of 83 cases, or 35 per cent.
However, fatalities increased sharply, with 16 deaths recorded, up from 5 in 2023 — a rise of 11 deaths, equivalent to 69 per cent.
