Tunnel fires are a serious safety concern due to their potential for catastrophic consequences, such as loss of life, property damage, and disruption to transportation networks. In recent years, research has given new insights into human behavior in tunnel fires, through in-depth interviews of survivors of real tunnel fires and true to life virtual reality (VR) studies. This paper reviews current research highlighting new findings, validation of existing knowledge and how new technologies may alter risk and human behaviour in road tunnel fire. By learning from real tunnel fires and incorporating these lessons into fire safety protocols, it is possible to minimize the risks associated with tunnel fires and ensure the safety of everyone involved. Overall, our studies show that road users can find evacuation rooms in a smoky tunnel environment, feel safe when staying in such evacuation rooms and accept to stay there in high temperature and humidity provided the right design and equipment. Theories on human behaviour in road tunnel fires are to a large extent verified, except that evidence from real tunnel fires show people are much more altruistic and helpful in tunnel fires than to be expected based on the self-preservation theory. The Virtual Reality simulations have shown that people follow the instructions from the Road Traffic Control Centre (VTS) and find first aid even in poor light. Perceived safety is highest in evacuation room design with good lighting and an illusion of blue sky and extra ceiling height in critical situations. Evacuation rooms are well-known technology used in other high-risk sectors, such as the petrochemical industry and the oil and gas industry, which have accident scenarios at least as serious as tunnels.