Recently, in Guang'an, Sichuan Province, a series of vehicle accidents caused by an "invisible step" on the road has drawn widespread attention. These incidents occurred outside a residential community on a commercial road, where a visually hard-to-detect step has become the culprit behind the mishaps.

The step, approximately 26cm high, blends in with the surrounding pavement due to its similar colour and unclear boundary, making it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to notice in time.

Surveillance footage reveals that since late September, over 20 similar accidents have occurred, involving electric scooters, tricycles, and motor vehicles. The vehicles, upon hitting the step, would jolt or lose control, leading to overturns and posing safety risks to drivers and pedestrians. Although the property management has installed warning signs and reflective cones following the incidents, these measures appear to be insufficient.

The property manager explained that the area is not a designated driving route, and most accidents involve outsiders unfamiliar with the road. The management team has repeatedly issued warnings and enhanced safety measures.

The community developer stated that the step was inspected and found to pose no significant safety hazard at the time of its completion. Currently, they can only focus on improving warning measures.

The Guang'an District Housing and Urban-Rural Development Bureau has acknowledged the issue, promising to urge the property management to rectify it and to inspect similar safety risks throughout the district.