What to Do If You Make a Wrong Left Turn into the Opposite Lane?
2 Answers
On roads with solid dividing lines, motor vehicles entering the opposite lane is prohibited. The road dividing lines include double solid lines and single solid lines. On roads with dashed dividing lines, you may overtake by borrowing the opposite lane if it is safe to do so.
Sometimes I also make wrong left turns into the opposite lane, especially on unfamiliar roads or when fatigued. Once it happens, I immediately tell myself not to panic—staying calm is the first step. Turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind, check the rearview mirror and blind spots to ensure no oncoming traffic, then slowly merge back into the correct lane. Avoid sharp turns or sudden acceleration to prevent losing control. Afterwards, I usually pull over to rest and reflect on the mistake—was I distracted or going too fast at the intersection? Prevention is key: practice turns more often, familiarize yourself with turning points, and use navigation aids. Also, be extra cautious in rain or at night when visibility is poor and mistakes are more likely. Cultivating the habit of slowing down and confirming lane markings before every turn can reduce such incidents. After decades of driving, every mistake becomes a lesson—safety always comes first.