What to Do When the Chosen Meeting Position Before Oncoming Traffic is Not Ideal?
4 Answers
When the chosen meeting position before oncoming traffic is not ideal, you should slow down, proceed at a low speed, or stop to yield. Here are the precautions to take during oncoming traffic: 1. First Look: Observe the type, speed, and load of the oncoming vehicle, the width of the road ahead, pedestrians and vehicles on the roadside, parked vehicles, and obstacles. 2. Second Estimate: Through observation and comparison, estimate the approximate position and road occupation when the two vehicles meet, leaving an appropriate lateral safety gap. 3. Third Slow Down: Reduce speed when meeting oncoming traffic. If conditions are poor as you approach the meeting point, control your speed further and avoid meeting blindly. If necessary, stop first to ensure a smooth meeting of the two vehicles. Also, pay attention to the rules regarding yielding and yield in a timely and reasonable manner. At night on roads without streetlights or with poor lighting, switch from high beams to low beams when meeting oncoming traffic.
Last time when driving back to my hometown in the countryside, I encountered a poor meeting point situation where the road was so narrow that only one vehicle could pass at a time, and a tractor came from the opposite direction. I instantly felt that the chosen spot was terrible. My first reaction wasn't to force my way through, but to immediately slow down, reducing my speed to almost a stop, thus leaving space for the other party to understand my intention. At the same time, I signaled with my turn signal or waved my left hand to yield, and if the environment allowed, I reversed to a wider section before meeting. Remember to scan the view more before driving, such as avoiding hilltops and curves, and finding straight road sections that are easier to operate. Safety is not something to rely on luck for; it's better to spend a little more time yielding than to take risks. After developing the habit of driving slowly, similar problems can be handled smoothly, saving a lot of trouble.
Having driven for many years, I deeply understand that safety is the top priority. If the meeting position is unfavorable, preserving life must come first. Immediately release the accelerator to slow down gradually, reducing speed to a level you can easily control. Then, use the horn or lights to communicate with the other party, signaling your intention to yield. When an opportunity arises, pull over to the side and wait until all oncoming vehicles have passed before continuing. Don’t forget to check the rearview mirror and blind spots to ensure there are no hidden dangers, especially being extra vigilant in rainy or foggy conditions. A relevant suggestion is to regularly practice meeting techniques on open roads, such as choosing straight sections on highways for practice, avoiding risky spots with poor lighting at night. Being well-prepared means fewer mistakes when selecting meeting points next time.
When I was a beginner, I once encountered an oncoming car in a narrow alley and chose a terrible position. The other car honked, which startled me. I immediately slowed down and stopped, waving to let the other car pass first, then found a wider spot to move over. Now I understand: if the position isn't ideal, act immediately by slowing down without hesitation, and cooperate to resolve the situation, such as using hand signals. After driving a few more times, you'll get the hang of it—just remember to pick a flatter and better spot. Safe driving is the bottom line; don't be afraid to adjust to avoid trouble.
