What Should You Do if a Car is Coming The Wrong Way in Your Lane?

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By: Taranjit | Last Updated: May 25, 2020

When a car is coming straight toward you in your lane, try to get the driver’s attention by honking and flashing your lights, while planning a way to avoid a direct hit. Don’t stare at the oncoming vehicle, as your car will follow your line of sight. Instead, look where you want to go, be it a lane over or the shoulder.

1. Slow down

When a car is coming towards you in your lane, start to reduce your speed slowly so you can better assess your surroundings and get out of the way safely. Speed is never the answer.

2. Send a warning

Try to get the other driver’s attention by sending them a warning by either flashing your headlights or honking your horn or both.

3. Move to the right of the oncoming car

If possible, move to the right of the oncoming car, not the left. Why right? Because if the oncoming car does realize their mistake and all of a sudden tries to correct themselves, they are going to go left (at least in the United States), and if you went left, that would not end well.

4. Move into clear area

Pay attention to your surroundings and find a safe place to get out of the way. Whether it’s a clear area on the grass or a shoulder on the side of the road, look for a place to go so you can get out of the way.

5. If necessary, drive off the road

If you have no where to go but off the road, go that way. Safely, of course. It is better to go into a ditch or off the road than being hit by an oncoming vehicle.

Final Thoughts

This is why it is important to avoid all distractions and put 100% of your attention on the road and your surroundings when you are behind the wheel. Do your part and stay in your lane, and be careful when driving in new territory. Make sure to read all signs so you don’t end up going the wrong way in a lane and freak some people out. And as always, stay safe and keep those around you safe. After all, driving is a privilege and can be taken away from you if abused.