What should drivers do if they accidentally drive the wrong way on a one-way street?

When drivers find themselves going the wrong way on a one-way street, stopping immediately and reassessing their situation is critical for several reasons. First, it allows the driver to evaluate their surroundings and determine the safest next steps. This pause can help prevent collisions with oncoming traffic, as driving further could lead to dangerous encounters with other vehicles.

Additionally, stopping provides the opportunity to safely turn around or reorient oneself, ensuring that the driver can make informed decisions about how to proceed without adding to the confusion or danger on the road. Instead of attempting to navigate the wrong direction, which could lead to further mistakes or accidents, taking a moment to stop and consider the safest course of action is the most responsible option.

Other choices might promote unsafe driving behaviors. For instance, speeding up could worsen the situation by increasing the likelihood of an accident. Keeping moving may prevent the driver from fully assessing their location and could result in an unsafe maneuver under pressure. Signaling for other drivers to pass is unnecessary and could complicate the situation further, as the driver should focus on finding a safe and legal way to turn around.