What Does Oncoming Traffic Mean?
2 Answers
Oncoming traffic refers to the situation when a driver encounters another vehicle coming from the opposite direction while driving, hence the term "oncoming traffic." Oncoming traffic priority means that in narrow road conditions during oncoming traffic, the vehicle with the capability to yield must allow the vehicle without the capability to yield to pass first. Oncoming traffic yield is a type of traffic prohibition sign, indicating that the vehicle facing the sign must stop and let the oncoming vehicle pass first. Precautions for oncoming traffic: Observe traffic signals and signs carefully when encountering oncoming traffic. In conditions with poor visibility, reduce speed in advance. Avoid using emergency brakes or suddenly lifting the accelerator during oncoming traffic. Avoid oncoming traffic near obstacles. Avoid oncoming traffic in complex locations such as narrow bridges and narrow roads. Avoid not turning off high beams during nighttime oncoming traffic. Traffic rules impose many regulations on oncoming traffic. On roads without a centerline, narrow roads, or narrow bridges, drivers must slow down, keep to the right, and pay attention to the safety of non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians. When oncoming traffic is difficult, the party with the right-of-way must yield to the other party. On obstructed road sections, the party facing the obstruction must yield to the other party. On narrow slopes, the party facing the obstruction must yield to the other party. At night on roads without streetlights or with poor lighting, drivers must switch from high beams to low beams when the oncoming vehicle is more than 150 meters away. On narrow roads or bridges when encountering non-motorized vehicles, continuous use of high beams is prohibited.
I just started learning to drive not long ago, and the term ‘meeting traffic’ sounded quite abstract to me. Later, I understood that it refers to the situation when two vehicles are coming from opposite directions, meet face-to-face, and pass each other safely. Imagine driving on a narrow road and suddenly seeing a car coming from the opposite direction—you both have to slow down, give way, or pass each other carefully. This process is called ‘meeting traffic.’ It’s common on narrow rural roads or winding mountain paths, and while it can happen in the city, it’s less frequent due to median barriers. As a beginner, I was especially nervous, afraid of any scratches or collisions, but with more practice, it got much easier. The key is to maintain a safe distance, signal early by honking or using lights, and watch out for pedestrians or other obstacles on the roadside. Safety comes first to avoid accidents—after all, no one wants to take unnecessary risks. When driving normally, observe road conditions more and develop anticipation skills so you won’t panic when meeting traffic.
