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Driving the wrong way on a freeway is an extremely dangerous act that can cost lives. The risk of death in accidents caused by wrong-way driving is about 15 times higher than in other types of accidents on expressways. To protect your life – and the lives of others – it is essential to learn preventive measures and what to do in case of an emergency.

Everyone is at risk of driving the wrong way

If you have mistakenly passed the exit junction:

1. Never reverse or attempt to make a U-turn on the freeway.
2. Continue driving to the next junction and exit the freeway there.
3. When exiting, use the manual toll lane and report the incident to the toll booth attendant.
4. The toll booth attendant will guide you so that you can safely return to the correct junction.

If you have mistakenly entered the freeway:

1. Do not attempt to turn around and return to the normal road.
2. Use the intercom at the toll booth ticket terminal to report the situation.
3. Follow the attendant’s instructions to return to the local road safely.
4. Avoid wrong-way accidents with attention and collective responsibility.

Avoid wrong-way accidents with attention and collective responsibility

If you see a vehicle traveling the wrong way:

1. When you hear or see information about a vehicle traveling the wrong way, reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
2. If you identify a car coming from the front, stay alert and try to avoid the collision safely.
3. Ask a passenger to call the police (number 110) or use the emergency telephone number at the rest areas (SA/PA). You can also report it directly to the toll booth staff.

If you realize that you are traveling the wrong way:

1. If the central barrier is on your left and the signs are facing away from you, you are probably going the wrong way.
2. Stop immediately in a safe place and turn on your hazard lights.
3. Get out of the car and move to a safe place off the road, such as behind a guardrail.
4. Call the police (110) or use the emergency number to ask for help.

Where wrong-way driving occurs most

About 60% of wrong-way driving incidents occur at highway entrances and exits, rest areas (SA/PA) and junctions (JCT). Pay attention to signs and signals – this simple check can prevent a fatal accident.

When entering the highway or leaving a rest area, make a habit of always checking the signs and signals!

Check the official pamphlet for the “Stop wrong-way driving” campaign here (in Japanese).