What are the penalties for driving in the wrong direction on a highway in 2021?

[AustinMarie]

According to Article 25 of the "Highway Traffic Management Regulations of the People's Republic of China": Reversing, driving in the wrong direction, or making a U-turn or turn across the central divider on a highway will result in a deduction of 12 points, a fine, and may also lead to the suspension of the driver's license for twelve months. Below are precautions for driving on highways: 1. Check the car before entering the highway: Before entering the highway, inspect the car's braking system, tire pressure, and wear to avoid emergency braking failure. Both under-inflated and over-inflated tires are detrimental to high-speed driving and can easily lead to blowouts, which can be fatal. Therefore, thorough vehicle inspection is essential. 2. Fasten seat belts: Seat belts should be worn whether driving on regular roads or highways. Passengers in the rear seats should also wear seat belts during high-speed driving. 3. Drive in the designated lane: Highways have clearly marked lanes for large vehicles, small vehicles, etc. When overtaking, promptly return to your lane after completing the maneuver and avoid occupying other lanes for extended periods. Additionally, emergency lanes should not be occupied without special reasons. 4. Maintain a safe speed and avoid speeding: The dangers of speeding are well-known and can lead to irreversible consequences, whether on local roads or highways. 5. Be cautious when overtaking: Always signal before overtaking on a highway, use the overtaking lane, and avoid the bad habit of overtaking from the right. After signaling, do not overtake immediately; check the rear traffic conditions first. When conditions permit, accelerate and maintain a lateral distance of about 1.5 meters from the vehicle ahead. After overtaking, leave sufficient distance before merging back into the lane to avoid rear-end collisions. 6. Maintain longitudinal distance between vehicles: Generally, on dry roads with good braking conditions, the distance (in meters) between vehicles should not be less than the speed (in km/h). For example, at 80 km/h, the distance should be at least 80 meters; at 100 km/h, at least 100 meters. Always pay attention to roadside distance markers. In rainy, foggy, snowy, or wet road conditions, the distance should be doubled. 7. Observe traffic signs: Always pay attention to roadside and overhead signs and markings, and drive slightly to the right to avoid running over the right lane divider, providing enough lateral distance for overtaking vehicles. 8. Do not arbitrarily occupy the emergency lane in case of accidents: Traffic accidents are inevitable on highways. If other vehicles cause blockages, do not occupy the emergency lane, as this may hinder rescue operations. 9. Avoid fatigued driving and take timely breaks: Fatigued driving is extremely dangerous on highways. Fatigue reduces reaction time, making it difficult to respond correctly to emergencies.