Drive Close to the Mountain or Not?
2 Answers
When driving on narrow mountain roads without staying close to the mountain, the side away from the mountain lacks its protection. If you slow down and pull over to the right to yield, there is a risk of falling off the cliff. On the other hand, the side close to the mountain is protected, making it relatively safer to stop and yield. Below are some tips for navigating mountain road encounters: 1. Use the horn frequently: When encountering another vehicle on a mountain road, honk the horn more often and for a longer duration. This ensures that the sound carries far, especially around bends, allowing approaching vehicles to prepare for yielding in advance. Make sure the horn is loud enough; otherwise, distant vehicles may not hear it. 2. Flash headlights promptly at night: During nighttime encounters on mountain roads, visibility is obstructed by the terrain, and the absence of streetlights makes it even more hazardous. Flash your high and low beams repeatedly so that distant vehicles can notice the lights and be aware of oncoming traffic. This is especially important on curves—keep flashing the lights continuously. 3. Stay to the right: On narrow mountain roads, consciously keep to the right when encountering another vehicle. This leaves enough space for both vehicles to pass safely and helps avoid accidents. Be extra cautious when driving through sections prone to landslides and try to stay farther away from the mountain.
I've been driving for over a decade, often on mountain roads, and sticking to the mountain side is absolutely the safest practice. I remember last year during a self-drive trip in Guizhou, that winding mountain road was steep and curved. By keeping to the mountain side, I had much better visibility, could see upcoming turns and oncoming vehicles earlier, and navigated through steadily. A friend of mine wasn't paying attention and drove on the outer side—almost went over the guardrail at a sharp turn, terrifying everyone. Veteran driver's advice: The mountain side in mountainous areas is like having an invisible protective wall, reducing the impact of accidents, and can be a lifesaver in rain or fog. Don't underestimate this habit—paired with keeping speed under 60 km/h and regular brake pad checks, it really makes a difference in critical moments. I recommend new drivers practice mountain driving more; sticking to the mountain side and slowing down is the golden rule.
