Wrong-way drivingUnited States

Wrong-way driving means travelling against the legally permitted direction of traffic.

It can occur on one-way streets, divided roads, motorways, slip roads, tunnels, car parks and temporary traffic arrangements.

Other drivers do not expect approaching traffic in their lane, and the combined speeds can make a head-on collision extremely severe.

Look for no-entry signs, one-way signs, mandatory-direction signs, lane arrows and road markings. Motorway exits may also have repeated signs or warning systems facing the wrong direction.

Entering past a no-entry sign can cause wrong-way driving, but the term also covers turning around on a divided road or using the wrong carriageway without passing such a sign.

Normally, yes. However, signs may expressly permit certain road users, such as cyclists or public transport, to travel in the opposite direction.

No. A cyclist, bus or other road user travelling in an expressly authorised contraflow lane or direction is using the road legally.

Yes. Temporary signs, barriers, lane signals and markings may redirect traffic onto another lane or carriageway. Follow the temporary arrangement rather than the usual road layout.

Reduce speed immediately, keep as far as safely possible towards the outer edge of your carriageway and avoid sudden lane changes. Warn the police or emergency services as soon as this can be done safely.

No. Do not block, chase or turn after the vehicle. Protect yourself and allow trained emergency services to intervene.

A brief warning may help the driver recognise the error, but avoid prolonged or aggressive signalling that could cause panic or an unpredictable manoeuvre.

Use the horn only when reasonably necessary to warn of immediate danger. Your first priority is to reduce speed and create as much safe space as possible.

Normally not. Sudden stopping may cause a rear-end collision. Slow down and move towards a safe shoulder, refuge or other protected location where possible.

Reduce speed, stop overtaking, increase your following distance and remain in the lane or position recommended by the local authorities or warning system.

Avoid unnecessary use of lanes nearest opposing or central traffic when a wrong-way driver has been reported. Follow local emergency guidance and electronic signs.

Slow down immediately, activate the hazard warning lights and use dipped headlights where required. Move to the safest available edge or shoulder and stop.

No. Increasing speed greatly increases the collision risk. Stop safely and wait for instructions from the police.

No. Do not turn across live lanes, cross a central reservation or attempt to correct the mistake through another dangerous manoeuvre.

No. Reversing against traffic or along a motorway slip road creates additional danger. Stop safely and contact the emergency services.

This depends on the location and immediate danger. Remain protected from moving traffic and follow instructions from the emergency services. Do not stand in a live lane.

Stop safely before using a handheld phone. A passenger may call while the vehicle is moving when local law permits and this can be done without distracting the driver.

Report the road name or number, direction, nearby exit or landmark, vehicle description and the wrong-way driver’s approximate location and direction.

Possible causes include confusion at junctions, poor visibility, unfamiliar roads, impairment, navigation errors, turning around illegally or deliberately ignoring traffic signs.

Slow down at unfamiliar junctions, read signs before turning, verify the road layout and do not rely exclusively on navigation instructions.

No. Traffic signs, signals, markings and instructions from authorised persons always take precedence over navigation guidance.