Which Vehicle Has the Right of Way When Meeting on a Slope?
4 Answers
According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, when two vehicles meet on a narrow slope: if neither vehicle has entered the slope, the downhill vehicle should yield to the uphill vehicle. If the downhill vehicle has already entered the slope while the uphill vehicle has not, the downhill vehicle has the right of way. If both vehicles have entered the slope and one needs to reverse to avoid collision, the uphill vehicle should reverse, as it is easier for an uphill vehicle to reverse. In any case, the vehicle that can reverse more easily should do so. Relevant regulations: Right of way conditions: slow down and keep to the right, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians; on obstructed road sections, the unobstructed vehicle has the right of way; but if the obstructed vehicle has already entered the obstructed section while the unobstructed vehicle has not, the obstructed vehicle has the right of way; on narrow slopes, the uphill vehicle has the right of way; but if the downhill vehicle has already reached the midpoint while the uphill vehicle has not started ascending, the downhill vehicle has the right of way. Prohibited U-turn situations: motor vehicles are not allowed to make U-turns at locations with no U-turn or no left-turn signs or markings, as well as at railway crossings, pedestrian crossings, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, tunnels, or other hazardous sections. Motor vehicles may make U-turns at locations without no U-turn or no left-turn signs or markings, but must not obstruct the normal passage of other vehicles and pedestrians. When reversing, motor vehicles should check the rear situation and confirm safety before reversing. Reversing is prohibited at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels.
After driving for so many years, the basic rule when meeting on a slope is that the vehicle going uphill has the right of way, because the downhill vehicle can control its speed more easily, and starting and braking are simpler. If the uphill vehicle stalls or slips, it might roll backward and cause an accident. I must remind everyone to slow down in advance when encountering a steep slope, observe the oncoming vehicle, and have a sense of courtesy rather than rushing. Be even more cautious when the road is narrow or there are blind spots; prevent slipping on rainy or snowy days, and regularly check brake pad wear. From a safety perspective, developing this habit can reduce the risk of rear-end collisions or scrapes. I've seen too many people make mistakes in a hurry—learning to drive slower is a sign of wisdom.
As a new driver who just got my license, I feel nervous about encountering vehicles on slopes. My instructor emphasized that when going downhill, I should yield to vehicles going uphill because climbing is more strenuous and harder to control. I tried practicing in the suburbs, paying attention to changes in slope. If my view is blocked, I honk to signal; in congested urban areas, it's easy to overlook, so it's best to develop a habit of slowing down. In bad weather like fog or icy conditions, slopes become even more dangerous—a friend of mine learned this the hard way. Overall, safe driving is about anticipation and mutual consideration; don't let small issues affect your mood and lead to bigger problems.
Daily school runs for the kids often involve navigating slopes and oncoming traffic. I always remember the uphill right-of-way rule, actively yielding when descending, avoiding sudden acceleration or competing for position. Safety is always the top priority, especially when carrying family members – extra caution is a must. Maintaining good vehicle condition prevents problems; I regularly check tires and brake systems. In rainy or foggy weather, I use more lights and avoid taking risks on slippery roads. Keeping a calm mindset is crucial – never let driving become a source of stress.
