Wrong-way drivingUnited States
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United States. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
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33. Wrong-way driving
Wrong-way driving occurs when a driver travels against the legally permitted direction of traffic. It may happen on a one-way road, divided road, motorway entrance or exit, or another road section reserved for traffic travelling in one direction.
Wrong-way driving creates an extreme risk of a head-on collision. Drivers must follow direction signs, no-entry signs, lane arrows and road markings. Anyone who accidentally enters a road in the wrong direction should slow down, warn other traffic, stop in the safest available place and contact the emergency services.
Wikimedia.org • Coolcaesar • CC BY-SA
How can you avoid driving the wrong way in the United States?
Traffic normally keeps right here. Keep to the correct side of the road and use no-entry and one-way signs to identify prohibited approaches; do not enter an exit ramp against its permitted direction.
🔗 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA MUTCD11th Edition Revision1 — relevant traffic controls
What signs can prevent wrong-way driving in the United States?
At some US ramps, the words DO NOT ENTER and WRONG WAY are displayed to traffic approaching in the prohibited direction. Before entering a motorway, expressway, one-way street or slip road, check the permitted direction rather than relying only on a navigation app.
🔗 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA MUTCD11th Edition Revision1 — relevant traffic controls

Traffic rules
United States