Drivers Travelling on the Wrong Side of the Motorway.

Understanding the Risks and Staying Safe

Motorway Traffic

Drivingon a motorway is generally one of the safest forms of road travel in the UK. However, one of the most dangerous situations any motorist can encounter is a vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the motorway. Although relatively rare, wrong-way driving incidents can have devastating consequences due to the high speeds involved.

Forlearner drivers, newly qualified motorists, and experienced road users inBurnley, Nelson, and Padiham, understanding how these incidents occur and knowing what to do if you encounter a wrong-way driver can help improve road safety and awareness.

What Is Wrong-Way Driving?

Wrong-way driving occurs when a vehicle travels against the normal flow of traffic on a motorway or dual carriageway.

This may involve:

• Entering a motorway via an exit slip road
• Driving in the wrong direction on a carriageway
• Turning around after missing an exit
• Becoming confused at junctions or roundabouts
• Entering restricted areas by mistake

Because motorwaytraffic travels at high speeds, even a brief wrong-way incident can create an extremely dangerous situation.

Why DoDrivers Travel on the Wrong Side of the Motorway?

There are several reasons why wrong-way driving incidents occur.

Driver Confusion

Some drivers become confused at motorway junctions, particularly in unfamiliar areas or during poor weather conditions.

Fatigue

Tired drivers may have reduced awareness and poor decision-making abilities, increasing the risk of serious driving errors.

Impairment

Alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can affect judgement, reaction times, and awareness.

Older Drivers and Medical Conditions

Some incidents involve drivers experiencingconfusion due to medical conditions that affect memory, awareness, or cognitive function.

Distractions

Drivers distracted by mobile phones, sat navs, passengers, or other factors may miss important road signs and lane markings.

WhyWrong-Way Driving Is So Dangerous

Motorways are designed for vehicles travelling in the same direction at relatively consistent speeds.

When a vehicle enters the wrong carriageway, several risks immediately arise:

• Head-on collisions
• Limited reaction time
• Severe injuries
• Multiple vehicle accidents
• Traffic disruption

Unlike many urban road accidents, motorway collisions often occur at high speeds, increasing the likelihood of serious consequences.

Warning Signs of a Wrong-Way Driver

Drivers should remain alert for warning signs that indicate a potential wrong-way vehicle.

These may include:

• Flashing headlights from other motorists
• Vehicles braking suddenly
• Traffic reports on radio broadcasts
• Overhead motorway warning signs
• Vehicles swerving unexpectedly

Maintaining good observation skills can help drivers identify unusual situations early.

WhatShould You Do If You See a Wrong-Way Driver?

If you encounter a vehicle travelling towards you on a motorway:

Stay Calm

Avoid panic reactions that could increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle.

Reduce Speed Safely

Ease off the accelerator and gradually reduce speed while maintaining control.

Move Left

Where safe to do so, move towards the left-hand lane and maintain a safe distance from surrounding traffic.

Increase Following Distance

Create additional space between your vehicle and others around you.

Do Not Attempt to Intervene

Never attempt to stop or confront a wrong-way driver.

Contact Emergency Services

When safe to do so, contact emergency services and provide:

• Motorway number
• Direction of travel
• Junction numbers
• Vehicle description

Accurate information can help police respond quickly.

WhatIf You Accidentally Drive the Wrong Way?

Although rare, drivers should know what to do if they realise they have entered a motorway incorrectly.

Stop Immediately If Safe

Do not continue driving against traffic.

Switch on Hazard Warning Lights

Alert other road users to the danger.

Contact Emergency Services

Call 999 immediately and follow the instructions provided.

Remain in a Safe Location

If possible, stay behind a safety barrier and await assistance.

Under no circumstances should a driver attempt to perform a U-turn or reverse on a motorway.

TheImportance of Road Signs

Motorways include extensive signage designed to prevent wrong-way driving.

Important signs include:

• No Entry signs
• Motorway entry signs
• Direction arrows
• Lane markings
• Junction information signs

Drivers should always pay close attention to road signs, particularly when driving in unfamiliar locations.

How ProfessionalDriving Lessons Improve Road Awareness

One of the most important aspects of learning to drive is developing strong observation and planning skills.

Professional driving instructors teach learners how to:

• Read road signs effectively
• Anticipate hazards
• Plan routes safely
• Maintain concentration
• Make informed driving decisions

These skills reduce the likelihood of navigation errors and improve overall road safety.

MotorwayDriving for New Drivers

Many newly qualified drivers feel nervous about motorway driving.

Common concerns include:

• High speeds
• Lane discipline
• Joining traffic
• Navigation
• Overtaking

Additional motorway tuition can help new drivers build confidence and learn how to manage these challenges safely.

RoadSafety in Burnley, Nelson and Padiham

Drivers in Burnley, Nelson, and Padiham frequently travel on local roads, dual carriageways, and motorways throughout Lancashire and beyond.

Maintaining strong observation skills and staying alert to unusual situations helps improve safety for all road users.

Whether travelling locally or undertaking longer journeys, drivers should remain focused, follow road signs carefully, and avoid distractions.

Common Causes of Driver Error

Many serious road incidents result from preventable mistakes.

Examples include:

• Inattention
• Fatigue
• Mobile phone use
• Speeding
• Failure to observe road signs
• Poor planning

Developing safe driving habits from the beginning can significantly reduce these risks.

DrivingLessons in Burnley, Nelson and Padiham

At Afzal Driving Lessons Burnley, we help learners develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to become safe and responsible drivers.

Our professional driving lessons cover:

• Hazard perception
• Road sign recognition
• Defensive driving
• Observation techniques
• Safe decision-making
• Practical driving test preparation

We provide driving lessons throughout Burnley, Nelson, Padiham, Brierfield, and surrounding areas.

Whether you are a complete beginner or preparing for your driving test, we can help you build the skills needed for safe driving for life.

Conclusion

Drivers travelling on the wrong side of the motorway create one of the most dangerous situations encountered on UK roads. Although such incidents are uncommon, understanding the causes, recognising warning signs, and knowing how to respond can improve safety for everyone.

For drivers in Burnley, Nelson, and Padiham, maintaining concentration, following road signs carefully, and developingstrong observation skills are essential parts of safe driving.

Professional driving lessons provide an excellent foundation for building these skills and preparing drivers for a lifetime of safe motoring.

Despite Lower Pass Rates Than Manual, Automatic Driving Tests have Doubled in Five Year

 

Despite Lower Pass Rates Than Manual, Automatic Driving Tests have Doubled in Five Years

Automatic Gear box

 

New research carried by  Uswitch car insurance experts has revealed that the number of driving tests taken in automatic cars has more than doubled over the past five years, highlighting a significant shift in how learners are approaching driver training.

According to the findings, 41% of automatic learners chose this route because they believedit would be easier than learning in a manual vehicle, while 37% felt they would learn quicker. A further 31% already had access to an automatic car at home.

However, the research suggests that perceptions around ease and speed may not translate into improved test outcomes. Uswitch noted that automatic driving test pass rates in 2025 were 10% lower than manual tests.

The study also explored some of the practical concerns experienced by automatic-only licence holders. The most commonly reported disadvantages included:

• Limited choice when buying used cars, 36%
• Missing out on manual driving skills, 28%
• Higher vehicle purchase costs, 28%
• Restrictions when borrowing friends’ or family members’ vehicles, 25%
• Higher maintenance costs, 24%

 

For instructors and trainers, the findings also point towards ongoing market changes within the training sector itself. Uswitch found that automatic drivinglessons cost an average of £5.05 more per lesson than manual tuition, potentially increasing the overall learning cost by around £224.94 for a typical learner.

The report highlighted that only 25% of instructors at major driving schools AA and BSM were teaching in automatic vehicles as of January last year, although the number of automatic instructors has increased by 76% since 2022.

The research also examined attitudes towards automatic-only licences. More than half of respondents, 56%, said they felt negatively judged by other motorists because they only drive automatics. Meanwhile, 19% said they regrettedlearning in an automatic vehicle, although 35% would consider learning manual driving skills in future.https://www.afzal-driving-lessons.co.uk/driving-lessons-driving-schools/driving-school-near-me

Despite this, many automatic drivers believe their experience leaves them well positioned for the future transition towards electric vehicles. With almost all EVs using automatic transmissions, 74% of respondents felt learning in an automatic had prepared them well for driving electric vehicles.

Uswitch insurance expert Leoni Moninska said: “It’s important to research the pros and cons to decide what’s best for your situation, but there are a few key factors to think about.”

DVSA suspends more than 1,100 licence numbers in crackdown on driving test booking misuse

 

Since 12 May 2026, only learner drivers have been permitted to book, change, swap or cancel car driving tests. The updated rules also prohibit the use of bots or automated systems to search for test appointments.

In an update sent to stakeholders, DVSA confirmed it has suspended online booking access linked to 1,178 driving licence numbers where its monitoring systems detected what it described as “unusual activity”. Learners affected can still manage bookings by telephone.

The agency has also reported a number of third-party driving test apps to Apple and Google, claiming they breach both DVSA terms and conditions and platform developer policies. DVSA said it is working with both companies in an attempt to have non-compliant apps removed.

Alongside this, DVSA confirmed it has reported social media accounts and groups advertising services that it believes break the law or breach its terms and conditions. According to the agency, some accounts have already been removed by platforms.

DVSA also stated that seven business accounts had been suspended after allegedly attempting to use bots to secure driving tests, although the agency said these attempts were unsuccessful.

However, questions remain across the training industry about how effective the measures will prove in reducing demand pressures and limiting unofficial secondary markets for test appointments.

DVSA continues to advise learner drivers to:

• Book, change or cancel tests only through GOV.UK
• Only pay official DVSA test fees
• Avoid third-party apps, websites or social media services offering earlier test slots

The agency said the only legitimate ways to secure an earlier test remain through the official GOV.UK booking service or by arranging a direct test swap with another learner through DVSA system.

National Action Required Against Illegal E-Bikes

 

National Action Required Against Illegal E-Bikes, says MCIA

 

Illegal e-bikes are becoming a national road safety and enforcement challenge that policing alone cannot solve, the Motorcycle Industry Association has warned.

The MCIA is calling for coordinated action from Government, police, regulators and delivery platforms ahead of the Second Reading of the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles Bill.

The association says illegally modified e-bikes, and non-compliant products sold as “e-bikes”, are increasingly being used on public roads despite being capable of moped or motorcycle-level performance. These vehicles can operate without licensing, registration, insurance or safety oversight, creating what the MCIA describes as a parallel, unregulated mobility market.

For driver and rider trainers, the issue is significant. Illegal e-bikes are now a growing part of the road environment, particularly in urban areas, and can present risks to learner drivers, pedestrians, riders and other road users. Their speed, weight and acceleration may not match what other road users expect from a pedal cycle, making hazard perception and early observation increasingly important.

The MCIA says the legal powered two-wheeler sector is also being affected. Registrations of new L1 mopeds have fallen by more than 40% since 2022, a decline the association says coincides with the rapid rise of illegal e-bikes being used as de facto mopeds outside the proper regulatory framework.

Over recent months, MCIA says it has engaged with every Chief Constable, Police and Crime Commissioners and the Policing Minister. It reports that every policing representative it has spoken to recognises illegal e-bikes as a growing and pressing issue, with many forces already carrying out seizures and targeted operations.

However, enforcement varies across the country, reflecting local priorities, resources and operational frameworks. MCIA says police forces have also raised concerns about the lack of clear national guidance on identifying, seizing and disposing of illegal vehicles, which contributes to inconsistent enforcement.

Police feedback suggests enforcement often focuses on anti-social behaviour because it is highly visible, while a significant proportion of illegal e-bike use is linked to gig-economy delivery work. MCIA says riders are often operating under the branding of major platforms such as Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats.

Targeted operations have also uncovered wider criminality, including illegal working, exploitation, weapons offences and drug offences, underlining the complexity of the issue.

MCIA is calling for national leadership, particularly from the Home Office, to create a cross-Government framework that supports policing, addresses the wider drivers of illegal e-bike use and strengthens expectations on delivery platforms to prevent the use of non-compliant vehicles.

Tony Campbell, Chief Executive of MCIA, said law-abiding manufacturers, retailers and users of mopeds and motorcycles are “fed up” with seeing widespread disregard for the law.

He said: “This is not simply a market trend, it is the emergence of an unregulated substitute for mopeds and motorcycles operating on public roads posing significant risk to pedestrians, other road users with these illegal vehicles being used to enable more serious crime.

“Police forces are key partners in the solution, but they cannot solve this alone. What is needed now is national clarity, consistent policy direction and coordinated action across Government.”

The MCIA says the EAPC Bill gives Parliament a timely opportunity to address the gap between legal electrically assisted pedal cycles and high-powered illegal e-bikes before an unregulated market becomes further embedded on UK roads.

AA ordered to refund 80,000 Learner Drivers over illegal ‘drip’ pricing

 

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has fined the BSM Driving School and AA Driving School  a combined £4.2m and forced them to repay £760,000 after they were found to have added a mandatory £3 bookingfee to lessons at the checkout.

And these drivingschools owned by the AA have been ordered to refund more than 80,000 customers after overcharging for lessons using illegal “drip” pricing.

The drip pricing is , where customers are not told the full cost of a service upfront, and it was banned in April last 2025.

Sarah Cardell, the chief executive of the CMA, said: “If a fee is mandatory, the law is clear: it must be included in the price from the very start – not added at checkout – so consumers always know what they need to pay.

“At a time when people are watching every pound, dripped fees can tip the balance. And when it comes to something as important – and costly – as learningto drive, people deserve clarity.”

The CMA launched an investigation into deceptive drip pricing tactics last year.

The CMA found the AA had added mandatory booking fees to lessons between April and December last year, only revealing the full price of booking a lesson after customers had picked their times and added their personal details.

Customers who were charged hidden fees by the AA can expect to be written to and refunded. The average refund is expected to be around £9.

The CMA said in November that it had written to more than 100 businesses regarding its concerns about their use of deceptive additional fees and sales tactics. It also launched investigations into eight businesses, including the AA driving schools, about deceptive pricing.

A 2023 government study found that as many as 46pc of online businesses were using some form of hidden fees, costing consumers an extra £3.5bn per year.

Learner drivers have been grappling with Waitingtimes for Driving Tests  of six months or longer amid a backlog of bookings that is not expected to be cleared until 2027.

A shortage of instructors and hundreds of thousands of missed tests during the Covid pandemic left new drivers paying over the odds to secure tests by relying on third-party websites to book slots.

The National Audit Office found in December there was a backlog of about 1.1 million tests dating from Covid.

The CMA said the AA had admitted to breaking the law and agreed to settle the case.

An AA spokesman said: “Although the £3 booking fee was made clear to customers prior to their purchase, we acknowledge it should have also been displayed at the start of the online booking journey.

“Having listened to the regulator, we made immediate changes to our website to make the £3 booking fee more prominent. We are now refunding all relevant customers.